Alaric B. Chapin (June 18, 1848 – November 27, 1924) was a Union Army soldier who received the Medal of Honor for gallantry in the American Civil War.

[1] He was serving in the 142nd New York Volunteer 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, 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 breach the fortifications and achieve victory.

[citation needed] 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.General Orders: Date of Issue: December 28, 1914 Action Date: January 15, 1865 Service: Army Rank: Private Company: Company G Division: 142nd New York Infantry