From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (PIONEERS & PATRIOTS: Anderson County Military Servicemen, Revolutionary War - WWI)

Bond was born a slave in Anderson County about 1843. He remained a slave into adulthood; since Kentucky refrained from secession, the slaves within her borders remained in bondage.

Late in the Civil War, however, the government called for the enlistment of colored regiments, and all who answered the call were granted immediate freedom.

Bond made his way across the Ohio River to Cincinnati to enlist, enrolling on August 8, 1864 and mustered into Federal service on  August 19 at Hillsboro, Ohio as a private in Company K of the 5th U.S. Colored Cavalry Regiment.

Since William's enlistment took place in a northern state, it can be assumed but not verified that he was a runaway. At this time he testified that he was 21 years old and born in Anderson County, KY  about 1843. He was 5'7" with a yellow complexion, dark eyes and dark hair.

Although not at a full complement of men at the end of September, the regiment was assigned to take part in Burbridge's Campaign into southwestern Virginia and were active at the 1st Battle of Saltville on October 2, 1864. In December, another attempt was made to destroy the salt works, and the 5th was then part of Stoneman's Raid.

On December 17 & 18, 1864, the Battle of Marion was fought and the Confederate lead mines were captured, and on the 20-21 the Federals captured and destroyed the salt works after the 2nd Battle of Saltville.

Throughout the spring and early summer of 1865 the regiment saw duty at various posts in central Kentucky until August 1865, when it was transferred to the Department of Arkansas. The regiment was engaged in that state against renegade groups until March 1866. It was mustered out of the service at Helena, Arkansas March 20, 1866.