WWII Enlistment Records show that 1st Lt William J. Southall, Jr. was a resident of Jefferson County Alabama. He enlisted as an aviation cadet 28 Feb 1942. His place of enlistment was Montgomery. Alabama. He completed 4 years of high school at the time of enlistment and his material status was listed as single.

Per Roster of Officers, Ground and Air Echelon dated 30 Nov 1944, 1st Lt William J. Southall, Jr. is listed as receiving his commission on 21 April 1943. This roster also indicated he was single.