Pelagio V. Sapin

A Tribute to Pelagio Vina Sapin
Born to Victorino Sapin and Pia Vina of Tanzang Luma, Imus, Cavite, Philippines on October 28, 1919, Pelagio "Layong" Sapin is the 3rd child among the 9 siblings in the family. He married the love of his life, Leonila "Doleng" Bautista and their union lasted 74 years. They were blessed with 6 wonderful children: Gloria (RIP), Ma. Magdalena, Edgardo (RIP), Shirley, Marlon and Elizabeth. Layong was proud of his 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandsons: Michael, Jamie, James, John, Brandon, Megan, Daniel, Arman, Efren, Justin and Joshua.
He began his military career in 1941, as a draftee to the Philippine Army at 20. During WWII, when Bataan fell, his unit was part of the 'Death March,' which he eluded by a daring river escape. Dodging enemy patrols, he made a return to Imus and later joined the guerrilla resistance. After the war, he enlisted with the Philippine Scout from 1945 to 1948 and later joined the US Army in 1948. He retired on January 1, 1966 with the rank of Sergeant First Class. His long career took him to various military bases in the United States, Korea, Japan and the Philippines.
He attended Cavite National High School and graduated from Lacson Law College with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration in 1974. Due to martial law, he gradually moved his family permanently to the United States. They settled in Southern California where they led a simple and frugal life.
Utilizing his entrepreneurial skills, he supplemented his pension and social security income with managing a laundry mat. He became popular with the local patrons for his friendliness and strong work ethics.
He loved Doleng's cooking and he always complimented her with the words "Masarap" and "Number One!" His pride and joy were his grandchildren. He loved to be around them and they would gather together to watch Clint Eastwood movies and wrestling. He was an inspiration and a role model in life.
Pelagio will forever live in our hearts.
"Old soldiers never die, they just fade away." - Douglas MacArthur