Charles enlisted on 21st June 1905. He was 18 years and 43 days old; was a plumber by trade; and was living in Islington at the time. In 1907 he developed rheumatic fever, and was treated at the Cambridge Hospital where he made a complete recovery. He was transferred to Army Reserve on 20th June 1908, but re-engaged for one year from 20th May 1909, returning after to 1st Class Reserve. Due to the outbreak of war, he was mobilized and rejoined at Aldershot. He was posted to serve with the 2nd Field Ambulance, entering the war with them on 19th August 1914. On 2nd September 1914 he was invalided home. From 22nd December 1914 to 11th January 1915 he was treated in Queen Alexandra Military Hospital, Millbank for vascular disease of the heart. He was discharged permanently unfit for war service on 5th February 1915.