The son of Artine and Justinem, of 58 Fois Au Bois, St Ouen.

He trained in Ireland and Aldershot before going to the front with the Jersey Company in December 1915. In March the following year he undertook a course on tunnelling. Served at the front until September 1916 when he was wounded during the fighting at Guillemont and Ginchy. Subsequently treated at Bermondsey Military Hospital, London, it is not clear whether or not he returned to active service. He was, however, in a Belfast hospital in November 1917 reportedly suffering from the effects of gas. Subsequently discharged from the Army in April 1918 as no longer fit for military service.