Pvt Baker enlisted into the US Army on September 1, 1870 at St Louis MO. He was described as 5'9", blue eyes, brown hair and & a fair complexion. His listed civilian occupation was farmer.

On On September 26, 1870, Baker reported for duty at Ft Riley KS & was assigned to Company E, 3rd US Artillery. On October 26, 1871, he was transferred to Company I.

On October 1, 1875, Baker reenlisted at New York NY. On October 29, 1875, Baker was assigned to Company E, 7th US Cavalry at Ft Totten in the Dakota Territory.

At the Battle of the Little Bighorn, Baker was attached to the 7th Cavalry's scout detachment. The mix of military, civilian & Indian scouts were commanded by Lt Charles Varnum.

Baker, at the time of the battle, was reportedly with LTC George Armstrong Custer's command. Baker was killed sometime during the battle.

After the battle his body was not identified. His remains were likely first buried on the battlefield where they had been found.

In 1881 all known battlefield burials were moved to a mass grave on Last Stand Hill.

In 1887 an minor, no listed name, recieved a suvivior's pension.

William H Baker