Tony joined the Royal Navy as an Aircraft Artificer Apprentice in 1950 and became an Instructor Officer in 1964, also graduating with a BA in 1976. He left the Navy in 1982 as a Lieutenant Commander. After teaching in Further Education for some years he graduated in Religious Education from St. John's College, Nottingham, and discovered his new mission within the priesthood. Tony supports the RNIOA by being available to former Schoolies, writing a message for the RNIOA Christmas e-cards each year, and editing.