 He joined the Royal Naval Air Service as a probationary flight sub-lieutenant on 24 August, and was confirmed in his rank on 30 October, and posted to HMS "Pembroke III".On 1 January 1915 he was promoted to flight lieutenant, seeing active service during the Gallipoli Campaign between April 1915 and January 1916, and on 14 March 1916 received a mention in despatches from the Vice-Admiral Commanding the Eastern Mediterranean Squadron, and also the award of the Distinguished Service Cross for his low altitude photographic reconnaissance flights over enemy territory.On 30 June 1916 he was promoted to flight commander, and a year later, on 30 June 1917, to squadron commander.