Eric was educated at Hutchins School, Hobart, Tasmania. He became engaged on missionary and research work (linguistic) for some years in British New Guinea (Papua). He entered Melbourne University and later, Sydney University medical student, where he graduated M.B., Ch.M. in 1913, then he began work as an Assistant House Surgeon at Queen's Hospital for Children, Bethnal Green. Eric joined the 24th (Queens) Bn. London Regiment as their Medical Officer on 6th August 1914. He was promoted to Captain after one year's service. He was the son of Lewis Vincent and Elizabeth Giblin.