Curtis was an early enlistment in RAAF Aircrew from Melbourne. He commenced flying training in May 1940 and saw distinguished service in the Middle East in 1942. Curtis shot down 3 enemy aircraft.

Curtis was posted to Mildura as an instructor. He was tragically killed when his Wirraway A20-69 crashed 17 miles west of the aerodrome while instrument flying in the clouds with student Sergeant W. Simkins.

Acknowledgement – Dr Farley Kelly (daughter) Wonga Park.