He was born in either Galați,[1]: 47 [2] or in nearby Vârlezi according to other sources,[3][4] the son of Eustațiu and Teodosia Cernat.

Cernat insured that the quality of the equipment would be improved, that portable weapons, cannons and ammunition would be provided, and sped up the instruction of reserves.

In order that the Russian Army would be protected and that any Ottoman incursions north of the Danube would be pushed back, he contributed to the organization of troops to cover the southern border Romania.

[1] As a reward for his skilfulness as a commander, the Tsar of Russia, Alexander II awarded him with the Order of St. George 4th class.

At Plevna, he supported the successful strategy and carrying out of encircling the troops of Osman Nuri Pasha.

[1]: 48 [2] He received the task of coordinating the Romanian troops on both banks of the Danube in order to eliminate the last pockets of Ottoman resistance around the fortress of Vidin.

[1]: 48  He resigned following disagreements with the government of the day and domnitor Carol I, and, upon his own request, took command of the 2nd Infantry Division.