Born in Ballarat, Grant and a Clerk by occupation, Hector Lawrence Cockburn was 19 years and single when enlisted on the 11th of June 1915 in the 23rd Battalion, 3rd Reinforcement, Australian Imperial Force, with the rank of Private, Number 1893. His Unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A68 'Anchises' on the 26th of August 1915. Admitted to 13th Casualty Clearing Station, suffering with Diarrhoea on the 12th of October 1915. Promoted Corporal on the 5th of March 1917. On the 27th of February 1918 admitted to Hospital sick and admitted to the 6th Australian Field Ambulance and discharged to duty on the 23rd of March 1918 from the 39th General Hospital. On the 30th of March 1918 re-joined from wounded ex France; on the 9th of August 1917 promoted Sergeant. Marched out from AGBD Havre 23rd Battalion. Embarked return to Australia per Hospital transport 'Kildonian Castle' on the 21st of March 1919. Disembarked on the 7th of May 1919. Discharged from the Australian Imperial Force on the 8th of July 1919 with the Termination of Period of Enlistment. 'As Battalion Orderly Room Sergeant this N.C.O. has a record of consistent, reliable and energetic work in carrying out his onerous duties on Battalion Headquarters Staff for past two years. He is a most reliable N.C.O. who has proved to have the best interests of the Battalion at heart. On many occasions he has accompanied the Battalion into the front line and proved his worth in his great assistance to the Adjutant. Served on GALLIPOLI and continuously with unit till present date. An invaluable member of the Battalion Staff and one who earns highest commendation for his services from all. Period 22nd September, 1917 - 24th September, 1917. Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 110 Date: 25 July 1918. Tree No. 733