Herbert James Beavis was listed as a 24 year old bank clerk when he joined the army at the Show Ground Camp in Sydney, 24 August 1914. He was a member of the Salvation Army and although born in Echuca, Victoria, by 1917 his father James Beavis resided in Philip Street, Parramatta
Herbert appears to have volunteered for service twice, the first time enlisting 24 August 1914, as a staff sergeant with the 1 Field Ambulance and the second time with the Field Artillery. He was wounded in the arms sometime after leaving for Gallipoli 21 May 1915 and was discharged as medically unfit 8 November 1916.
After re-enlisting he suffered from arm and back paralysis and was granted leave without pay from 26 November 1918 to the 25 June 1919. He was discharged 21 May 1920.
Geoff Barker, Coordinator Research and Collection Services, Parramatta Council Heritage Centre, 2014