William James Watters was the son of John and Sarah Watters. He was born on 13th February 1887 in the Stewartstown area, probably in the Albany area. He was one of eleven children. Neither census lists William with the family, who had a farm at Tamnavalley, Killycolpy. William emigrated to Canada. Prior to enlistment, William lived in Winnipeg and worked as a clerk. He enlisted in 1915. William Watters served with the 52nd Battalion of the Canadian Infantry. He rose to the rank of sergeant. In August 1918 he was shot in the shoulder and was removed to England for treatment. He returned home to Canada in March 1919.