Herbert enlisted on 14th October 1915. He was 19 years and 39 days old, and was a Clerk by trade. He embarked at Southampton on 15th May 1916, then disembarking at Rouen the next day, entered the war in France on 16th May 1916. He was posted to serve with the 23rd Field Ambulance, joining them in the field on 25th May 1916. On 2nd September 1916 he became unwell and was evacuated to No 14 General Hospital, via No 7 Corps Rest Station, No 44 Casualty Clearing Station, and No 30 Ambulance Train. He was admitted into the Convalescent Depot in Boulogne on 13th December 1916, then after 4 days rest, on 18th December, was posted to Base Details. On 4th January 1917 he joined the 141st Field Ambulance for duty from Base Details. On 23rd August 1918, he, along with Capt J T Kirkland, proceeded to 1st Divisional Reception Camp for temporary duty. On 4th July 1919 he proceeded to No 1 Concentration Camp, Cologne for dispersal and was struck off the strength of the unit.