Sidney enlisted into the R.A.M.C. on the 3rd November 1898 (initially for 7 years in the army and 5 years in the reserve, however dates in his "The Small Book" indicate he continued in the regular army beyond the initial 7 years). Sidney served in South Africa, disembarking on the 14th September 1900. Whilst there he was granted: Queen's South African Clasps; "Cape Colony"; "Orange Free State"; King's South African Clasps; "S. Africa 1901"; and "S. Africa 1902". On the 18th February 1903 he was appointed Lance Corporal, his further promotions were: 9th March '04 or 07(illegible) to Corporal; 1st October '08 to Lance Sergeant; 14th October '08 to Sergeant; 10th August '14 to Staff Sergeant; and 7th March '15 to QM Sergeant. During at least 1907 to 1913 Sidney was living at Millbank Barracks, London with his wife, their first four children are listed as being born there. [Information kindly provided by family] Sidney entered the war in France on the 20th August 1914, he gained a commission of QM and Lieutenant on the 12th December 1918 [information source MIC]