Chris Argianas: Feeling Like He Can Do Anything

By Mallory Pistek, Honor Flight Chicago Veteran Interview Volunteer

Chris Argianas was born in Cicero, Illinois on April 3, 1934.  Both of Chris’ parents were immigrants from Greece.  Chris and his family stayed in Cicero for twelve years before moving to Brookfield, Illinois, where his parents had their own little family store.  Chris states that his family was very family orientated.  Chris says he has enjoyed playing baseball since he was young.  

Chris was in Junior College, age 19, when he was chosen for selective service.  He had taken a summer job at Western Electric and remembers thinking to himself that he knew he would be drafted.  He remembers his family being very devastated when he told them that he had been selected.  He did state that he also remembers his family reacting that same way when his older brother went off to fight in World War II.  

Chris went to basic training at Fort Leonard Wood. He remembers that he was taught how to fire a rifle and had never ‘marched that far in your life.’  He also remembers meeting people who had never seen snow or never had shoes.  But he recalls that at age 19 he felt like he could do anything.  

After boot camp, Chris was sent to Fort Belvoir in Virginia.  There he went to Engineering School.  Because he was so close to Washington D.C., Chris says he went every weekend he could go.  He unfortunately has not had the chance to go back. He was then sent to Fort Sheridan for re-assignment, and lastly to Fort Riley in Kansas.  Chris also vividly remembers the many friendships he made through the service.  

While in service, Chris worked on training aid and charts for command staff.  He was going to be sent to Korea but at the time was playing baseball for the US Army in a tournament at first base.  Chris served from January of 1954 through January of 1956 and earned a rank of Specialist Third Class. 

Once out, Chris went back to working for Western Electric (AT&T) from 1956-1994 where he was a senior engineer.  While Chris had met his wife in high school (she was a Junior and he was a Senior), they did not get engaged until after Chris was out of the service.  They were married when he was 25 and she 24 and now have been married for 66 years.  He remembers that they were compatible in High School and have been ever since.  They have three daughters, and five grandchildren.  

Nowadays Chris stays VERY busy still playing competitive baseball on multiple different teams.  He also enjoys spending time with his family and has the life motto that ‘everyday is still a good day.’

Chris is most looking forward to going to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. and spending time there.  He has had many friends that have taken this trip and hopes for it to be memorable.  

Thank you for your service Chris. Enjoy your Honor Flight!