Arthur Holmes enlisted in December 1915 and embarked with the 11th Reinforcements 1st Bn, E Coy, on 1st April 1916, destination Suez. He was initially posted to the 3rd New Zealand Rifle Brigade, but in July 1916 transferred to the NZ Pioneer Battalion. During his period of active service Arthur Holmes suffered several spells of illness. He died of bronchitis at Codford on 28th December 1917. He is buried at Codford (St Marys) New Churchyard, near the No 3 NZ General Hospital.

Arthur had listed as next-of-kin his sister, Mrs E Dixon who was living in Auckland at the time of his enlistment. She later moved to Sydney, but was subsequently noted as 'deceased', and the name of Arthur's half brother Mr William Marshall-Muir of Wanganui was added to his record. In 1921-22 Arthur's campaign medals and scroll were sent to Mr Marshall-Muir. The scroll was later returned but not the medals. In 1923 Mr Marshall-Muir was noted as "not found" and Arthur's Memorial Plaque and Scroll were sent to the Town Clerk, Auckland City Council. They were presented to the Museum in 1927.

Note: on his attestation form his name is spelt as Arther Holmes.