Born in Allendale, Victoria and a grocer by trade, Richard Charles Baird was 26 years and single when enlisted on the 23rd of September 1915 in the Field Artillery Brigade 4, Battery 10, Australian Imperial Force, with the rank of acting Bombardier, Number 6309. His Unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A18 'Wiltshire' on the 18th of November 1915. On the 8th of March 1916 promoted Bombardier. Was reported gassed on the 23rd of July 1918 and later on the 24th of July 1918 admitted to hospital from F.M. wounded. Admitted 41st Staty Hospital Gassed. Admitted to 1st A.G.H. Rouen with gunshot wounds left leg, thigh, buttock, back and head severe and reported dangerously ill and on the 2nd of October 1918 invalided to England wounded. On the 31st of January 1919 transferred to 1st A.G.H. GSW Leg. On the 11th of January 1919 reported progressing favourably and was granted leave for non-military employment (agricultural experience) from 12th of April 1919 till 12th of July 1919 with pay and subsistence and marched out to London for demobilize. On the 17th of November 1919 was advised returning to Australia and disembarked Australia per 'Nestor' ex Davenport on the 15th of December 1919. Tree No. 3700