APERGIS, JOHN S.

Col. John S. Apergis passed away in his sleep at the age of 93 this past December 28, 2010. As a young captain, he served with both Raider battalions in the Pacific Theater of World War II starting with the Midway campaign. The first real test of the Marine Corps was at Guadalcanal with the Raiders. He was involved in many behind the line actions during this endeavor. As the strategy of island-hopping continued his next action was the battle for Saipan/Tinian where he commanded the First Battalion of the 29th Marines.

While stationed in Guam, John was now a major with the Third Marine Division and actively involved in the planning in the invasion of mainland Japan. Due to the fortunes of war this land action was never acted on. John returned home to peacetime and lived his life with his wife and family to the fullest. He was employed by Dow Chemical where he then retired to Alexandria, VA.

He is survived by his beloved wife Helen E. Apergis; loving children Steven Apergis (Rebecca) and Nicholas Apergis (Terri), two grandchildren Jason and Justin and two great-grandchildren Ethan and Caroline. Friends may call at the Everly Wheatley Funeral Home, 1500 W. Braddock Rd., Alexandria, VA 22302 on Sunday, March 6, from 4 to 6 p.m. Funeral Service will be held on Monday, March 7, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Katherine’s Greek Orthodox Church, 3149 Glen Carlyn Rd., Falls Church, VA 22041. Interment to follow at 1 p.m. Arlington National Cemetery.