William Gilbert Marsh was born in Malvern, Victoria, and enlisted in the AIF in Adelaide in January 1915. He was 28 years old and the son of the Rev WG Marsh, a well known preacher, patron of many patriotic societies and committees, and later a strong supporter of conscription. William gave his occupation as “auctioneer’s clerk”. William Marsh played for South Adelaide reserves in 1913 and 1914. He lived at Malvern, a 15-minute tram ride from the South Parklands. He was also in a rifle club and the militia.
He served with the 11th Light Horse for the final three months of the Gallipoli campaign. Back in Egypt he was on detachments to the 4th Light Horse, a camel regiment and headquarters staff. Promoted to Sergeant by June 1917, he was back with the 11th as they were involved in the fighting at Gaza and Beersheba. Later in the year Marsh began to suffer from serious health problems, including appendicitis and an ulcer in his right leg.
He was returned to Australia and discharged as medically unfit in May 1918. William Marsh jnr did not remain in Adelaide after the war. He lived in several states including WA and the ACT.