b. 18/06/1847 Ogdensburg, New York. d. 27/11/1924 Portland, Oregon.
DATE OF MOH ACTION: 15/01/1865 Fort Fisher, North Carolina.
Alaric B Chapin MOH
Born in Ogdensburg, New York, Chapin enlisted in the Army from Pamelia, New York in February 1864 for a 1-year term. He was serving in the 142nd New York Infantry when his regiment attacked at the head of the Union column against Confederate fortifications at the Second Battle of Fort Fisher, North Carolina on January 15, 1865. Although just 17 years old, Pvt. Chapin voluntarily advanced at the head of his regiment, and despite heavy hostile fire, he gallantly cut down the enemy palisading, allowing his comrades to breech the fortifications and achieve victory. He was transferred to the 169th New York Infantry in June 1865, and mustered out with his regiment the following month.
After the war Chapin farmed, worked as a teamster, and raised a family. He didnt receive his Medal of Honor until 28 December 1914.
MOH CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Private Alaric B. Chapin, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 15 January 1865, while serving with Company G, 142d New York Infantry, in action at Fort Fisher, North Carolina. Private Chapin voluntarily advanced with the head of the column and cut down the palisading.
BURIAL LOCATION: ROSE CITY CEMETERY, PORTLAND, OREGON.
GRAVE #6 WEST 1/2 LOT 300, SECTION M.
LOCATION OF MEDAL: GLENBOW MUSEUM, CALGARY, ALBERTA, CANADA
