William O. Needham was born on 20 July 1911 in Ivor, Virginia. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the Navy and attended basic training at Hampton Roads Naval Training Station in Virginia. In April 1932, he completed the Bureau of Navigation's Aviation Machinist's Mate training course and began two years of service on USS Memphis. After completing training, he was designated a Naval Aviation Pilot and departed Pensacola in May 1937. Needham spent nearly four years with various patrol squadrons, serving in Squadron 33 and Squadron 54 after leaving Squadron Five in July 1939. Beginning in 1941, Needham had duty with Support Force, Atlantic Fleet. On 1 May 1943 he was appointed Lieutenant (jg) for temporary service, and just 17 days later promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Well thought-of by his superiors, Needham was recommended for a permanent commission and continued service as an officer. His career was cut unfortunately short when he was killed in a plane crash near Beltsville, Maryland on 17 May 1945.
From the description of Papers, 1930-1988. (Navy Department Library, Naval History & Heritage Command). WorldCat record id: 53896328
