The story of Young William is based on the remarkable life of Lieutenant William McBryar. William McBryar is someone many would consider a real American hero. As a Buffalo Soldier, McBryar was a man of true grit and courage that was willing to do whatever it took to bring honor to his country. Like many great heroes in history, William McBryar is a name that happens to go unnoticed. The creators behind Young William felt that it was a necessity to bring his story to the world. It is important that young children are exposed to stories such as Lieutenant McBryar's, so they understand that not all heroes wear capes and real people actually paved the way for them so that they too can be heroic.