James entered the war in Egypt on 9th November 1915. He was serving with the 141st Field Ambulance when, on 22nd July 1917, he proceeded from the unit to report to the Administrative Commandant, Petite Synthe for temporary medical duty in the Back Area, Fourth Army. He rejoined the 141st Field Ambulance for duty from the Administrative Commandant, Petite Synthe on 17th August 1917. On 12th March 1918 he was admitted to the hospital of this unit suffering from Shell Gas Poisoning �W� and was transferred to No 36 Casualty Clearing Station. He rejoined the unit for duty from Cyclists Base Depot on 5th May 1918. On 26th March 1919 he proceeded to the Concentration Camp for dispersal, and was struck off the strength of the unit.