Billy joined the Canadian Expeditionary Force in 1914, serving in France with the 1st Artillery Brigade. Selected for training as a Bayonet Fighting & Physical Training Instructor he became his unit’s PTI. (Note the Hat Badge!!) Retiring as a S/Sgt in 1919, he returned to Biggar and the CNR. In 1941 Billy enlisted in the RCAF, attending the RCAF PT&DI course. He was discharged in 1943 (he had lied about his age). He retired to Victoria BC until his death in 1972.

Note: His son “Sandy” joined the RCAF in 1940 and was a PT&DI, Rec Spec and PERI. (a year before his Dad (Billy). Sandy retired in 1973.