Scottish-born Charles Anderson served as an engineer with the Royal Naval Reserve during WW1. This included service on mine-layers and on troopships, including NZ Transports. He took his discharge in Aberdeen, circa 1919. By the following year Charles Anderson was based in New Zealand. He undertook further qualifications as Second-class Engine Driver for Stationary Engines; and worked as fireman on a number of coastal vessels. During the 1920s he served with the 1st Battalion Taranaki Regiment, being posted to the Reserve in 1927.

Charles Anderson was living in Wanganui and was 52 years old when he signed up for war service in April 1941. He was discharged at his own request six months later in October 1941, but had served long enough to qualify for his War Medal 1939-1945 and his New Zealand War Service Medal.