Thursday, 4:30 PM
Ogonowski announces run to succeed Meehan
By Globe Staff
Jim Ogonowski became a symbol in Massachusetts of the human toll of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks because his older brother was captain of one of the planes commandeered by terrorists and flown into the World Trade Center. The Dracut resident, whose face is familiar from tributes and memorials, announced today that he will run Congress, adding his name to a growing list of candidates jockeying to succeed US Representative Martin T. Meehan.
Ogonowski, 49, is an Air Force lieutenant colonel scheduled to retire next month after a 28-year career. His brother, Captain John Ogonowski, was piloting American Airlines Flight 11 when terrorists hijacked the Boston-to-Los Angeles flight.
Jim Ogonowski, a Republican, told the Globe last week that the personal tragedy influenced his choice to explore a run for the Fifth Congressional District seat. Serving in Congress would give him a voice on national security policy, he said.
"Of course, 9/11 will have a significant impact on my decision, just as growing up on the farm has a huge impact on my environmental views," Ogonowski said in a telephone interview.
Ogonowski, who has never held elected office, said that the Iraq war, taxes, and healthcare are top issues in a long list of national and local concerns. He is a full-time member of the New Hampshire Air National Guard who commands a refueling task force.
