Major General William N. Redling began his military career in 1927 by joining the Washington State National Guard. He graduated from University of Washington in 1940, he was commissioned a First Lieutenant in the Alaska National Guard.

In 1941, he transitioned to active duty and took command of A Co. 297th Infantry. He participated in Aleutian Island Campaign during World War II and saw action in the South, Central, and North Pacific. While attached to the U.S. Marine Corps, he served as the Shore Group Commander and Port Commander for the Iwo Jima assault.

His key assignments included: Logistics Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Allied Powers Europe; Assistant Chief of Transportation, Research and Development, Department of the Army, G-4; and Chief of Staff, U.S. Army Alaska, Commanding General, 1st Logistical Command, Commanding General , U.S. Army Transportation Center and School and Fort Eustis, Deputy Commanding General, Army Materiel Command. He retired in 1971.

His decorations include: Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, and Army Staff Identification Badge.