Service Record - 1st Alabama Cavalry, USV

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Glenda McWhirter Todd. She passed away on September 3, 2017 surrounded by her family. She was a historian, genealogist, and author who prided herself on being a descendant of Andrew Ferrier McWhirter of the 1st Alabama Cavalry, USV. Her work over the past two decades and her dedication to the 1st Alabama Cavalry has created a legacy that will last for years to come.

Her life's work has touched thousands of people through the years, and I am glad that I had the pleasure to work with her as long as I did. My hope is that her work will live on for years to come to educate and inspire a new generation.

James H Day

Age:	21
Birthplace:	Morgan Co., AL
Rank at enlistment:	Sergeant
Rank at Discharge:	2nd Lieutenant
Company Assignment:	I
Company Ressignment:	D

7/21/1862	Enlisted Huntsville, AL
7/21/1862	Mustered In Huntsville, AL
10/12/1863	Enlisted Camp Davies, MS Reenlisted as a 2nd Lieutenant.
7/19/1865	Mustered Out Nashville, TN

Notes:

2nd Lt. James H. Day was the son of Richard Day and Elizabeth Penn, the grandson of David Day, Jr. and Stephen Penn.

At the time of enlistment into the 1st Alabama Cavalry, US on July 21, 1862, he was 21 years old, 6' 1" tall with light complexion, blue eyes, and sandy hair. He was appointed 4th Sgt. upon organization of the original infantry company, and held rank of sergeant until October 12, 1863 when he was commissioned 2nd Lt. at Camp Davies, MS.

He had a brother, Richard B Day, and a nephew, George W Day, in the 1st Alabama Cavalry.

On November 1, 1864, 21 men of his company were selected as personal escorts to General Sherman. He took command of the company's remaining 24 men.

On March 10, 1865, he was given command of Company K, after its leader was killed in action in North Carolina. He returned to his company in May and was mustered out with his unit July 19, 1865.

After he mustered out of service, he returned to his home community, married Martha Simpson and had four children. His first born, George Spencer Day, was named after Colonel Spencer, commander of the 1st Alabama Cavalry.

James died 1 January 1881 at the age of 40.

Buried:
Friendship Cemetery, Morgan Co., AL

Database created and maintained by Ryan Dupree.

Service records compiled by Glenda Todd and used with her permission. This and other information about the history of the First and the men who fought with the unit can be found in her book, First Alabama Cavalry, USA: Homage to Patriotism.

Picture submitted by Joseph T. Richardson.

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