History of Capt. John L. Chapin
Chapin High was named after a local World War II hero, Army Captain John L. Chapin. Before enlisting in the National Guard Chapin graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in chemical engineering. He intended to go to medical school after graduating but postponed his plans so that he could join the National Guard.
In November 1940 Chapin's unit was activated as Company E, 141st Infantry, 36th Division of the United States Army. The unit was sent overseas to North Africa. Chapin declined several promotions in order to stay with Company E as the unit consisted mostly of fellow El Pasoans. Most Company E men were Hispanic and non-English speakers. Chapin thought that if he took the promotion Company E would probably be left to a non Spanish speaking commander who would mistreat the soldiers. For this reason his men respected him. Captain Chapin was killed leading the men of Company E into battle across the Rapido River in Italy.
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