James enlisted into the R.A.M.C. on 20th October 1900. He was 19 years and 2 months old. He saw active service in South Africa from 1901 to 1902, then on 28th November 1903 he was transferred to Army Reserve, but was re-engaged on 18th October 1912. He entered the war in France on 18th August 1914. He transferred to the Kings Own Scottish Borderers on 19th February 1918.