Simpkins enlisted in RAAF Aircrew from Sydney.

His flight training was at 8EFTS Narrandera and 5SFTS Uranquinty graduating Sergeant. Posted to 20TU Mildura, Sergeant Simpkins was killed while instrument flying in the clouds. His Wirraway aircraft crashed 17 miles West of Mildura at Merinee. His instructor, Flying Officer V. Curtis (400039) also sadly lost his life. Sergeant Simpkins was only 19 years of age.

Acknowledgement – Geoff Sheldon (RAAF friend).