Born in Sebastopol, Victoria and a Draper by trade, William Brittain was 19 years and single when enlisted on the 13th of May 1918 in the 8th General (Victorian) Reinforcements, Australian Imperial Force, with the rank of Private, Number 60649. His Unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A74 'Marathon' on the 23rd of July 1918. Promoted temporary Driver on the 26th of January 1919 in the 7th Battalion. On the 18th of October 1918 admitted to Group Hospital, Sutton Veny, suffering with Influenza; on the 24th of October 1918 transferred to Military Hospital, Sutton Veny and discharged to duty on the 8th of March 1919. Returned to Australia per 'Raranga' on the 8th of September 1919. Disembarked on the 27th of October 1919 and Discharged from the 3rd Military District Military Unit with the Termination of Period of Enlistment on the 20th of December 1919. Tree No. 3634