Born in Cornwall, near Geelong and a Motor Conductor by trade, John Oscar Baensch was 25 years and single when enlisted on the 8th of July 1915 in the 14th Battalion, 13th Reinforcement, Australian Imperial Force, with the rank of Private, Number 4139. His Unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A64 'Demosthenes' on the 29th of December 1915 and rank of Corporal from Nominal Roll. Wounded in action, France on the 9th of August 1916 – shot wound left hip. Private appointed Lance Corporal to complete establishment on the 30th of December 1918. On the 23rd of February 1918 advised wounded gas. On the 6th of January 1918 appointed Lance Corporal; Lance Corporal promoted temporary Corporal on the 20th of September 1918 and on the 19th of January 1919 promoted Corporal. Embarked return to Australia per 'Armagh' on the 5th of April 1919. Disembarked on the 18th of May 1919 and Discharged on the 10th of July 1919 with the termination of period of enlistment. Tree No.853