Frank Damant was born in Melton in 1884. In 1901, he was living at home and working as a stable lad. In 1911, ten years later, he had left home and was working as a footman for the Nevill family at Eridge Castle, Frant in Sussex; the seat of the Marquis of Abergavenny.

Frank enlisted in the 3rd Battalion Cameron Highlanders in 1915 and later transferred the Royal Engineers.

For his war service, Frank received the 1914-15 Star, the British War and Victory Medals.