William Robinson was born in Manchester about 1877. No details of his life can be found prior to enlisting, except that he is recorded as being employed as a mason. He was living in Tamlaghtmore, Coagh when he enlisted. Lance Corporal William Robinson served initially with the Royal Irish Rifles. He had a troubled time and deserted in 1917. William Robinson was released from military prison on 1st November 1918. It seems he was sent to work in the sanitation department of a military establishment. Rifleman William Robinson later received both the British War and Victory Medals.