John Vincent Tunbridge was born in Ballarat, Victoria, was single and a Motor cyclist when he enlisted with the Australian Flying Corps, No 1 Squadron, Headquarters on 1 February 1916 at the age of 22. His unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A67 Orsova on 16 March 1916. He was given his firs promotion to 2/Lieutenant on 19 August 1916 and proceeded to Aboukir for instruction in aviation. He was reported as wounded on 12 May 1917, presumably in an aeroplane crash, and was rushed to the 22nd Mobile Field Ambulance suffering dangerous burns over his arms, chest and abdomen. He was listed as 'dangerously ill' and transferred to Cairo, where his condition improved and he was pronounced out of danger on 25 July 1917. He returned to Australia for 6 months change on 17 July 1917.
On a dispatch dated 3 May 1918 it was announced Lt Tunbridge would receive the coveted Military Cross for distinguished service in the field.
Tree No. 2077