Archibald William Tonkin was born in Ballarat East, Victoria, was married to Mrs A W Tonkin of 12 Bradshaw Street, Ballarat East, Victoria and was a Motor Mechanic when he enlisted with the 31st Battalion, D Company on 16 July 1915 at the age of 23. His unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A62 Wandilla on 9 November 1915. He was appointed the rank of Lance Corporal temporarily in May 1916, receiving a full promotion later that year in November. IN September 1918 h would again receive a promotion to Lance Sergeant. A month later, on 6 October 1918, he was wounded in action with a severe gunshot wound to the left leg and right arm. He was evacuated to England and from there invalided to Australia, receiving a medical discharge on 19 April 1919.
Tree No. 1691