john f. unghire, JR.

United States air force 1954-1958

korean war

senior airman

John F. Unghire Jr. proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1955 to 1959 as a radar specialist assigned to the Defense Early Warning (DEW) Line during the early years of the Cold War in Alaska and later in Truro Cape Cod. He was honorably discharged following four years of dedicated service to his country.

Following his military career, Mr. Unghire became a successful business owner, founding Aerospace Support in Agawam, MA. Known for his sharp technical mind and problem-solving ability, he earned a reputation as a highly skilled consultant capable of troubleshooting even the most complex challenges.

A man of remarkable energy and curiosity, John led a life defined by adventure. He was a licensed pilot who especially enjoyed flying to remote regions of northern Canada, where he embraced the solitude of the wilderness and his passion for fishing. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed both freshwater and saltwater fishing throughout his life. During a period living in Alaska, he participated in big game hunting, including the hunting of a polar bear.
Mr. Unghire was an active member of several organizations, including the Canadian Seaplane Pilots Association, the National Rifle Association (NRA), the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA).

Those who knew John remember him as a larger-than-life presence, someone whose stories, experiences, and personality left a lasting impression. He was known not only for his adventurous spirit but also for his generosity in sharing knowledge and his enthusiasm for life.

He was married to his wife, Charlotte, for nearly 50 years. Together, they raised two sons and one daughter and were blessed with four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. John made his lifelong home in Enfield, where he remained a well-known and respected member of the community.