News Summary
Homer C. Ogles, a distinguished retired Navy Commander, passed away peacefully at the age of 94 in Coronado, California, where he had lived for 58 years. Ogles leaves behind a notable legacy of service to his country and community, having contributed significantly to aviation and military operations throughout his career. He is remembered for his dedication to his family and his role in various local initiatives. No services will be held per his wishes, with donations encouraged to his local VFW post in his honor.
Coronado, California – Retired Navy Commander Homer C. Ogles, affectionately known as “Cecil,” passed away at the age of 94 in his Coronado home, where he had resided for 58 years. Ogles died peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of service and contributions to aviation, as well as a loving family.
Born in Franklin, Kentucky, to Homer C. Ogles Sr. and Myrtle V. (Turner) Ogles, Cecil graduated from Franklin-Simpson County High School before enlisting in the United States Navy on September 13, 1948. He completed Photographer’s Mate “A” School by September 16, 1949, marking the start of a distinguished military career.
In his early years of service, Ogles was assigned to NAS Quonset Point in Rhode Island and the Headquarters of the First Naval District in Boston. During his time in Boston, he met and married Pasqualina “Lil” A. Morganelli, a tailor and dedicated volunteer singer/dancer at the USO. The couple went on to have two children, contributing to a nurturing family dynamic.
After being promoted to Photographic Limited Duty Officer in 1959, Ogles continued to rise in rank and responsibility. His last enlisted assignment was as Chief Photographer’s Mate with RVAH-5, flying the North American AJ-2P Savage, and he deployed with the U.S. Sixth Fleet during this period. He was commissioned as a Naval Officer in 1960, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG).
Ogles’s notable accomplishments include his role as a Photographic Line Officer with VFP-62 at NAS Cecil Field in Jacksonville, Florida. One significant highlight of his career occurred on November 26, 1962, when President John F. Kennedy personally presented the Navy Unit Commendation to his squadron for their crucial contributions during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
In addition to his military achievements, Ogles was an enthusiastic private pilot. He restored a 1948 Piper Aircraft PA15 Vagabond while stationed in Virginia Beach in 1966, completing a memorable flight with his son to Brown Field, San Diego, in May 1967. Later that year, he purchased his Coronado home while assigned to the Pacific Fleet Combat Camera Group.
Ogles served in various capacities, including Officer in Charge while stationed in Saigon, Vietnam. He retired from the Navy on June 30, 1978, after dedicating 30 years to military service and receiving multiple honors and awards throughout his career.
Beyond his military tenure, Ogles was deeply involved in his community. He was an active private pilot and dedicated volunteer for the Experimental Aircraft Association. He played a significant role in establishing the California State Parks Volunteer Campground Hosting program at Silver Strand State Park RV Campground, demonstrating his commitment to public service.
Known for his RECYCLE FLYERS display at the Coronado VFW Hall, Ogles used this initiative to support the post through proceeds generated from community contributions. He maintained cherished friendships with neighbors who supported him in his later years, fostering a strong sense of community connections.
Commander Ogles was predeceased by his wife Pasqualina and his daughter Donna M. (Ogles) Jewell. He is survived by his son Steve, niece Sandra (Peter), and two grandchildren. In accordance with his wishes, no service or ceremony will be held, and his ashes will be scattered at sea off the coast of San Diego. Those wishing to honor his memory are encouraged to consider donating to VFW Henry D. Styer, Post #2422, in Coronado, California.
The passing of Commander Homer C. Ogles marks the end of an era and the loss of a remarkable individual whose life was marked by dedication to his country, his family, and his community.
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Additional Resources
- Coronado News: Commander Homer C. Ogles Jr.
- Wikipedia: United States Navy
- Coronado News: Community Church Christmas Concert
- Google Search: Commander Homer C. Ogles
- Coronado News: Coronado Traffic Update
- Google Scholar: Military Service Community Involvement
- Coronado News: New Parks and Recreation Program
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cuban Missile Crisis
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
