Chief Ogden began his military career in 1942 by enlisting in the Army Air Corps as an aircraft mechanic. In 1947, he became one of the first to join the newly established New York National Guard 106th Bombardment Group, helping to lay the foundation for what would become the 106th Rescue Wing.
This past March the 106 Rescue Wing had the distinct honor of welcoming Chief Ogden back to the base to celebrate his 102nd birthday. During his visit he spoke with members about his more than 40 years of military service, reminding all how the 106th becomes family.
Chief Ogden is a part of the fabric of the 106th - a thread woven through generations of dedicated and proud service to our community, state and nation. His legacy lives on in the unit he helped shape and in the Airmen who carry the mission forward today.
Visitation will be held at Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Homes, 125 W Old Country Road, Hicksville, NY 11801, on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 & 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, and on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm & 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 500 S Oyster Bay Rd, Hicksville, NY 11801, on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 9:15 am.
A Committal Service will follow at St. John the Evangelist R. C. Cemetery, 546 St Johns Pl, Riverhead, NY 11901.
