A Roof Over a Hero’s Head: Mark Pogue’s Story and the Owens Corning Roof Deployment Project
On Wednesday, November 1, 2023, a meaningful event unfolded in Midwest City, Oklahoma, as U.S. Air Force veteran Mark Pogue received a brand-new roof for his home at 10021 Oak Park Drive. This generous act was made possible through a collaboration between Parker Brothers Roofing, an Owens Corning Platinum Roofing Contractor, and Purple Heart Homes, as part of the Owens Corning Roof Deployment Project. What might seem like a simple roofing job on the surface is, in fact, a powerful testament to community gratitude, corporate responsibility, and the enduring commitment to honoring those who have served our nation.
The Recipient: Mark Pogue, A U.S. Air Force Veteran
At the heart of this story is Mark Pogue, a U.S. Air Force veteran whose service to his country has not gone unnoticed. While specific details about Pogue’s military tenure remain private, his selection as a recipient of this roofing project speaks volumes about his contributions and the respect he has earned. Through a partnership with Purple Heart Homes—a nonprofit dedicated to providing housing solutions for service-connected disabled veterans—Pogue was carefully vetted and approved for this gift.
For veterans like Pogue, homeownership can come with unique challenges, especially as homes age and require maintenance. Oklahoma’s weather, known for its extremes—tornadoes, high winds, hail, and scorching summers—can take a toll on any roof. A new, durable roof isn’t just a practical upgrade; it’s a lifeline that ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind for years to come. For Pogue, this gift represents more than just shingles and underlayment—it’s a symbol of a community giving back to someone who has given so much.
The Givers:
Parker Brothers Roofing and Owens Corning
The effort to provide Mark Pogue with a new roof was a team endeavor, spearheaded by two key organizations: Parker Brothers Roofing and Owens Corning.
Parker Brothers Roofing: A Local Legacy of Service
Since its founding in 1998, Parker Brothers Roofing has been a cornerstone of the Midwest City community, specializing in protecting Oklahoma homes and businesses from the state’s unpredictable climate. The company has built a reputation for excellence, led by owner Gary Parker, offering a wide range of services, including roofing, guttering, siding, and window solutions. As an Owens Corning Platinum Roofing Contractor, Parker Brothers Roofing adheres to the highest standards of quality and professionalism, backed by leading shingle manufacturers.
Gary Parker expressed the company’s deep commitment to this project: "Through the years, we have upheld a strong commitment to serving the community, including the esteemed members and Veterans of our armed forces. We’re thrilled to be in a position to offer our services free of charge so that Mr. Pogue will be protected against Oklahoma weather for years to come.” For Parker and his team, this project wasn’t just about installing a roof—it was about honoring a veteran and reinforcing their mission to shield their neighbors from the elements.
Parker Brothers Roofing donated the labor for Pogue’s new roof, underscoring their dedication to giving back. The company’s long-standing presence in the industry, coupled with their expertise, ensures that the installation meets the highest standards, providing Pogue with a roof that’s built to last.
Owens Corning: A Nationwide Commitment to Veterans
Owens Corning, a global leader in building materials, brought its own muscle to the table by donating all the roofing materials for Pogue’s home through its Roof Deployment Project. Launched in 2016, this nationwide initiative aims to show gratitude to veterans and their families by providing them with new roofs—an essential yet often overlooked need. Since its inception, the program has delivered over 475 roofs to military members across the country, making a significant impact one home at a time.
The Owens Corning Foundation, the charitable arm of the company, plays a pivotal role in funding these efforts, ensuring that veterans like Pogue receive top-quality materials at no cost. Known for their durable, energy-efficient shingles, Owens Corning products are a perfect match for Oklahoma’s harsh weather conditions, offering long-term protection and peace of mind.
Together, Parker Brothers Roofing and Owens Corning exemplify how businesses can collaborate to create meaningful change, blending local expertise with national resources to uplift deserving individuals.
The Partner: Purple Heart Homes
The selection of Mark Pogue as the recipient of this roof replacement was facilitated by Purple Heart Homes, a nonprofit organization founded by veterans for veterans. Established in 2008, Purple Heart Homes is dedicated to providing safe, accessible, and affordable housing solutions for service-connected disabled veterans and their families. The organization’s mission is rooted in the belief that every veteran deserves a dignified place to call home—a place where they can thrive after their years of sacrifice.
Through their partnership with Owens Corning and local contractors like Parker Brothers Roofing, Purple Heart Homes identifies and approves candidates for the Roof Deployment Project. Their rigorous vetting process ensures that the program reaches those who need it most, making them an indispensable part of this initiative. For Mark Pogue, Purple Heart Homes was the bridge that connected his needs with the generosity of others, turning a dream of a new roof into a reality.
The Event: A Day of Gratitude and Hard Work
On November 1, 2023, at 8:00 a.m. CST, the installation of Mark Pogue’s new roof began at his home in Midwest City. The event was more than just a construction project—it was a celebration of service, community, and collaboration. Representatives from Parker Brothers Roofing were on hand to oversee the work and speak with media about the significance of the Roof Deployment Project, sharing insights into why this initiative matters.
The process itself likely involved a full day of labor, with the Parker Brothers team removing the old roof, inspecting the underlying structure, and installing the new Owens Corning materials. While the press release doesn’t detail the exact timeline, a typical roof replacement of this nature can take anywhere from one to two days, depending on the size of the home and weather conditions. Given Oklahoma’s November climate—cool mornings and mild afternoons—the timing was ideal for such a project.
For Pogue, the day marked a turning point. As the crew worked, he could rest assured that his home would soon be fortified against the elements, thanks to the combined efforts of those who rallied around him.
Mr. Pogue’s home got a full roof makeover in just one day—complete with an unexpected bonus: his shed was re-roofed too, ensuring every corner of his property is ready to weather Oklahoma’s storms.
The Bigger Picture: Why the Roof Deployment Project Matters
The Owens Corning Roof Deployment Project is more than a charitable giveaway—it’s a movement to honor veterans in a practical, impactful way. Since 2016, the program has grown steadily, reaching over 475 military members by November 2023. Each new roof represents a story of sacrifice, resilience, and community support, reflecting the values that define the United States.
For veterans, the benefits of a new roof extend beyond mere shelter. A sturdy roof can lower energy bills, prevent costly repairs, and increase property value—all of which contribute to financial stability. For someone like Mark Pogue, who has served his country, this support is a small but significant way to say “thank you” for his dedication.
The project also highlights the power of partnerships. By combining the resources of a corporation like Owens Corning, the expertise of local contractors like Parker Brothers Roofing, and the advocacy of organizations like Purple Heart Homes, the Roof Deployment Project creates a ripple effect of goodwill that strengthens communities nationwide.
How to Get Involved
If Mark Pogue’s story inspires you, there are ways to support the Roof Deployment Project and similar efforts. Owens Corning encourages individuals and businesses to learn more by contacting [email protected]. Whether you’re a veteran in need, a contractor willing to donate labor, or simply someone who wants to spread the word, your involvement can help this program reach even more deserving recipients.
For those in the Midwest City area, Parker Brothers Roofing also offers free inspections and estimates for roofing, guttering, and free bids on siding and windows. Their no-obligation approach makes it easy for homeowners to explore their options, ensuring that Oklahoma residents are well-protected against the state’s wild weather.
Conclusion: A Roof, A Veteran, A Community
On November 1, 2023, Mark Pogue’s home in Midwest City became more than just a house—it became a symbol of gratitude and resilience. Through the Owens Corning Roof Deployment Project, Parker Brothers Roofing, and Purple Heart Homes, Pogue received a gift that will shield him from Oklahoma’s storms for years to come. But beyond the shingles and the labor, this story is about people coming together to honor a veteran’s service with action, not just words.
As Gary Parker aptly put it, “The only thing standing between you and Oklahoma weather is Parker Brothers Roofing.” For Mark Pogue, that statement now rings truer than ever. And for the rest of us, it’s a reminder of the power of community—and the enduring debt we owe to those who have served.
