From Battle Creek, Michigan, William enlisted for 3 years service on January 16, 1864, at the age of 20. He was promoted to Corporal prior to his transfer to Company H, 1st Cavalry on November 17, 1865. He was wounded at Little Blue, Nebraska, on July 4, 1865. He was present at Yellow Tavern, Meadow Bridge, Cold Harbor, Trevillian Station, and Appomattox Court House before serving in the West. He was discharged at Detroit, Michigan, on June 30, 1866. After the war he resided in Sunfield, Michigan.
15 January 1999