William Oscar Hixson served with the Illinois 64th Infantry Volunteers. They were given the name of Yates Sharpshooters by then Illinois Governor Yates. William was listed at time of enlistment as 25 years of age, 5'10" with black hair, dark eyes and dark complexion. William was married at the time.

He was born in Warren County Ohio in 1836 and later died in Blanchard, Iowa in 1917 where he is now buried.

William served with the Infantry from December 14, 1861 until October of 1862 when he was discharged for a disability.