Field Promotion Certificate for Union Infantryman Jonathan Van Nest to the rank of 1st Sergeant. Issued at Smith's Plantation, Louisiana on April 17, 1863, by Lt. Col. Marcus M. Spiegel. The certificate notes that Smith's Plantation was previously owned by J.J. Smith, who fled when the Union Army arrived and freed his slaves. Lt. Col. Spiegel was mortally wounded in an ambush at the Battle of Snaggy Point on May 4, 1864, succumbing to his injuries a little over a year after signing this document. It's possible the signature is that of an Adjunct signing for Spiegel.
Subject: Promotions (Military rank)
No additional authority information available for Promotions (Military rank).