Robert enlisted into the R.A.M.C., Territorial Force on 4th April 1914, and was embodied into the Lowland Mounted Brigade Field Ambulance. He was 17 years and 9 months old at the time. The following day, on 5th August, he was attached to the 1st (Lowland) Field Coy, R.E. He entered the war in France on 15th December 1914. He received a ‘GSW’ to his left leg. On 7th February 1918 he joined the 141st Field Ambulance for duty. On 16th February 1918 he proceeded for temporary duty with the 409 (Lowland) Field Coy, but was admitted ‘sick’ to the hospital of the 1st Field Ambulance on 4th April 1918. He was discharged back to duty with the 409 (Lowland) Field Coy, R.E. on 6th April 1918, and rejoined the 141st Field Ambulance for duty on 10th May 1918. On 28th June 1918 he proceeded to Headquarters, First Army for temporary duty, serving there until he rejoined his unit on 4th July 1918. He returned to the UK on 27th September 1918, then was discharged from service on 25th April 1919.