Arthur Blackburn served at Gallipoli and on the Western Front during World War I. On his return to Australia he practiced law and campaigned on pro-conscription side of the conscription debate. Blackburn enlisted again duing World War II. He fought in Syria and Java and was promoted to the rank of Brigadier. Blackburn was a prisoner of war from 1942 to 1945.
Having been awarded a Victoria Cross for his service during World War I, Blackburn was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1946 for his distinguished service in Java. He was also appointed a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George in 1955.
