S/Sgt William Bonning's hometown was Detroit- Hazel Park, Michigan. He entered the service in Royal Oak, Michigan at 20 years of age in January of 1943.  He recieved his parachute training at Fort Benning, GA.  S/Sgt. Bonning arrived in Europe and was assigned to the 504th on December 7, 1944.  He served as a BAR man and later as a Supply Sgt. with 3rd platoon under platoon leaders Lts. Douglas and Shaifer.  S/Sgt. Bonning took part in the Ardennes and Germany operations.

He considers the "Battle of the Bulge" to be the 504th Greatest Accomplishment.

Some of his combat buddies were: Harold Florey, David Amendola, Mike Clements, Jack Cocozza, Loe Hart, Ray Jenchowski, Bill Lynn, Charlie Nau, "Turk" Nersesian, Phil Scinto, Bob Waldon, Chas Rogers, Amos Fegan, Wally Field, Fadely, Bill Jandran, Sidney Redburn, Hugh Johnson, T. Holliday, M. Holmstock, Buck Hetzler and MANY OTHERS.

Several of his personal memories are listed in the Memories section