Cyrus C. Kirling (actual spelling Kerling) born in Washington Co., MD and raised in Franklin County, PA. He initially served with the 77th Pa from 17 Sept 1861 until 24 October 1864. He enlisted as a substitute in February of 1865  in Co. E 100th Pa and carried the U.S. flag in the battle of Fort Stedman on March 25, 1865.

After the war he married Sarah Yeager and his first child was named William Grant Kerling (after both Sherman & Grant). I am William's Great-grand daughter.  

Cyrus died on 24 August 1907 is buried in Three Springs Cemetery, Three Springs, Huntingdon County, Pa.

The following 1865 letter written on Pvt. Kirling's behalf by Captain Book of Company E formally acknowledges Kirling's status of a "substitute" and his honorable wounding in battle defending the U.S. colors.

(*Note:  Thanks to Ruth Curfman for transribing this National Archives pension letter.  Converted to HTML for the Roundhead "Letters" webpage by David L. Welch)

Camp 100th Regt Pa Vet Vol Inf
Near Georgetown D.C. July 30 1865
 
I certify on honor that Cyrus C. Kerling, Private of Co. "E" 100th Regt PA V A Vol Inf who was enlisted February 1st 1865 at Chambersburg, Pennsyvania by Provost Marchall 16th Congressional District (as a substitute for Samuel Coble, St. Thomas Twp, Franklin Co., PA 54th Sub district) for one year was wounded March 25th 1865 near Fort Stedman Va in the left breast while gallantly defending the U.S. Flag against its enemies.
 

(signed) D. P. Book Captain

Comdg. Co. "E" 100th P.V.V.I
 
I certify (to my own personal knowledge) that the above statement is correct.
(signed)
N. J. Maxwell Col
Comdg 100th Regt P.V.V.I
signed in duplicate

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