He enlisted as a 2nd Sergeant on May 20, 1861 for a period of 12 months as did all others. On the re-organization of the Army, spring 1862, men were essentially required to re-enlist for the war, or 3 years. During the regiment's re-organization's voting, he either did not run, or was not re-elected Sergeant, thus, he was reduced to the ranks. On April 16, 1862 the Conscription Act was passed requiring all men 17-35 to serve in the Army. I would guess that this paper work arrived later, or when it became effective, he was discharged as, having completed his term of service, 12 months, and being over the age of conscription, 35 years. He would have served with the regiment up till August 20, 1862.
Alvy James, 2nd Sergeant, Company F, 7th Tennessee Infantry, enlisted May 20,1861 at Nashville by Thos. Boyers for 12 months, sick at Jordon Springs January 1, 1862, reenlisted for 3 years April, 1862, reduced to Private April 26, 1862, discharged for reason of seniority August 20, 1862, term of service expired, no further records
Note: The regiment re-organized for the war, April, 1862, no exact day noted in the record
M268: Compiled Service Records of Confederate Soldiers Who Served in Organizations from the State of Tennessee