Herbert Thorwald Coles was born 1891 at Kirkcudbright. He was the son of Frederick R Coles and Margaret N Blacklock. Herbert Thorwald had two brothers and two sisters.

In the 1911 census Herbert Thorwald was serving in the Gordon Highlanders at Colchester. He was a Lance Corporal, age 20. He became CSM.

Herbert Thorwald Coles went to France July 9, 1915.

April 25, 1917 Herbert Thorwald received his commission and served as 2/Lieutenant in the Seaforth Highlanders.