From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (PIONEERS & PATRIOTS: Anderson County Military Servicemen, Revolutionary War - WWI)
Jillin, James (last name possibly Gillin)
(born: c. 1841) Jillin was born a slave in Anderson County about 1841. He was a soldier during the Civil War, serving in the Union Army as a private in Company E of the 5th U.S. Colored Cavalry Regiment USA. He enlisted September 19, 1864 at Camp Nelson.The 5th regiment of the Colored Cavalry began enlistments in June 1864 and was officially organized at Camp Nelson on October 24, 1864. Although not at full complement of men, those enrolled at the time took part in Burbridge's Campaign into southwest Virginia, which was active at the First Battle of Saltville on October 2, 1864. In December, another attempt was made to destroy the salt works, and the 5th was again part of Stoneman's Raid. On December 17-18, 1864, the Battle of Marion was fought and the Confederate lead mines were captured. On December 20-21, the Federals captured and destroyed the salt works after the 2nd Battle of Saltville.
After returning from the Saltville Campaign the 5th saw duty at various posts in Kentucky until August 1865 when it was transferred to the Department of Arkansas. The regiment was engaged in that state against renegade groups until March 1866, then was mustered out of the service at Helena, Arkansas on March 20, 1866.