William Collins was born in Little Easton, Essex in 1867 and worked as a safe maker before attesting with the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry on 30 Nov 1885, posted to Malta from 23 May 1901to 17 Feb 1888, before India from 18 Feb 1888 to 5 Nov 1893.
Collins latterly served with the Royal Garrison Artillery from 5 May 1901 until discharge on 13 May 1905.