Born in Northcote, Victoria and a Jeweller by trade, Ernest Richard Anthonsen was 21 years and single when enlisted on the 17th of July 1915 in the 24th Battalion, 5th Reinforcement, Australian Imperial Force, with the rank of Private, Number 2329. His Unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT RMS 'Osterley' on the 29th of September 1915 with the rank of Lance Corporal. On the 26th of May 1917 appointed Lance Corporal in France and on the 28th of July 1917 detached from duty and placed on the supernumerary list. On the 24th of August 1917 promoted to regiment Corporal at Tidworth. Promoted temporary Corporal on the 20th of October 1917. On the 27th of October 1917 reverts to Lance Corporal on being evacuated sick. On the 10th of October 1917 detached from permanent cadre of battalion on proceeding overseas from England to Havre, France for a period of 43 days. Absent without leave from midnight 14th of February 1918 until 8 am 16th of February 1918. On the 4th of March 1918 reduced to Private and total forfeiture 2 days' pay. On the 24th of August 1918 missing in action in France. On the 7th of October 1918 reported prisoner of War (Well) in German hands in Germany. On the 9th of December 1918 repatriated arrived in England. On the 5th of March 1919 returned to Australia per æNevasa' ex. England. Disembarked on the 25th of April 1919 and Discharged from the 3rd Military District on the 17th of June 1919 with the termination of Period of enlistment.