William was a 29 year-old miner when he enlisted 28 December 1915. His wife Ruby Pearl, is listed as being in the care of Miss Davies, Marsden Street, Parramatta. He stood 5 foot 4 inches tall and appeared to have a number of tattoos, including some around his neck.
He joined the 13 battalion in France 19 August 1916 and just 9 days later was wounded in action. For disobeying orders he was sentence to 9 months imprisonment 14 June 1917. William returned to Australia 12 May 1919.
Geoff Barker, Coordinator Research and Collection Services, Parramatta Council Heritage Centre, 2016