What if a 14 year old became sick because of camp, etc. conditions?
Answer Military service during the Civil War was very different than it is today. There were many under age soldiers, some as young as 11. Children as young as 8 served as drummer boys. For the most part, these young soldiers were were held to the same rules as other soldiers. If they left the military without leave, they were considered deserters. A young age or other factors might excuse them from the death penalty, but it would not necessarily prevent charges from being levied. If a very young boy was very sick and had the ability to get home (most people had to walk home) he might be granted sick leave to return home. This happened, but was not very common for enlisted men. I hope this helps!
