The son of Mr Thomas and Mary, of Le Londin, St Mary.

While in Ireland, he started training as a Signaller, and then in Aldershot qualified as a First Class Signaller. Serving as part of the Signalling Section of 7th Royal Irish Rifles, he went to the front with the Jersey Company in December 1915.

Served through 1916, possibly being wounded during the fighting at Guillemont and Ginchy in September that year. He remained with the Jersey Company through 1917, being promoted to Lance Corporal, and transferred to 2nd Hampshire Regiment along with most other remaining members in January 1918.

After Discharge from the Army in April 1919, he re-joined in the following to serve with the Royal Corps of Signals. Left again in December 1922.