(many thanks to sotonmate GWF for all his help with researching Herberts Service)

Herbert Desbrow enlisted into the Royal Regiment Of Artillery (Royal Garrison Artillery) on the 16th of August 1900 aged 15 years and 1 month old, his rank was boy and his regimental number 5379.

Herberts description on enlistment was given as:

Height  - 5 feet 0 inches

Weight - 99.5 lbs

Eyes - Blue

Hair  - Light Brown

He joined the "Citadel" on the 16th of August 1900 but was medically discharged on the 31 December 1901( in the 1901 census his address was given as Military Hospital Stoke Devonport). His career lasted 1 year and 189 days of home service, during this time however he gained his 3rd class education certificate. His unit on discharge was No.1 Depot RGA and his military trade was given as Telegraph boy.