CONCORD, N.H. –
The New Hampshire National Guard and the State of New Hampshire suffered a tragic loss of one of its finest airmen and leaders.
Brig. Gen. John “Pogo” Pogorek, commander of the New Hampshire Air National Guard, died July 8 near his home in Rochester. Gen. Pogorek was the victim of a hit and run accident. He was 57.
“Gen. Pogorek was an exemplary wingman, mentor and friend to many,” said NH Adjutant Gen. David Mikolaities. “He served his State and Nation with the utmost professionalism and dedication. He will be deeply missed.”
“On behalf of the entire State of New Hampshire, I extend my sincere condolences to the family of Gen. Pogorek,” said Governor Chris Sununu. “Gen. Pogorek served his state, country, and community with honor. His commitment and contributions to the Granite State will never be forgotten.”
As the assistant adjutant general for the NHANG, Gen. Pogorek was responsible for the command, operations, and combat readiness of more than 1,300 officers, airmen, and civilians at Pease Air National Guard Base in Newington. Gen. Pogorek was a pilot, accruing more than 6,675 flying hours over 31 years with the U.S. Air Force and NHANG. He oversaw the fielding and operations of the Air National Guard’s first fleet of KC-46A refuelers.
He is survived by his wife, Whitney Pogorek, and their five children.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time,” Mikolaities said.