The son of Mary Carpenter (further details unknown). Prior to the war, he Lived in Union Street, St Helier, and worked as a butcher.

Trained with the Jersey Company in Ireland and Aldershot before going to the front in December 1915. Served at the front through 1916, training as a Bomber (hand-grenades) in March, and reaching the rank of Sergeant in October the year. Wounded in the arm and back by a grenade in March 1917, he was evacuated for treatment in Britain. His wounds left him no longer fit for active service and he was discharged as a result in February 1918.