Served in the New Zealand Division of the Royal Navy from 7 August 1926 - 18 December 1937. Starting as a Boy 2nd Class, he progressed to the rank of Able Seaman. He served in HMS Philomel, HMS Dunedin, HMS Diomede (Cerberus), and HMS Achilles during his career. He was invalided out of the Navy because of his worsening eyesight. A high standard of eyesight being essential for a Seaman Gunner in those days since all the weapons were visually sighted. AWMM