Peter
Now that we have established a few more facts
I would suggest that you obtain copy of what is known as CR1, CR2, CR10 and CRS10 there are the record cards which will give a list of ships he served on with dates of engagement, albeit ships Official No’ which in turn can be looked up for the ships name
These cards are (if survived) in the Southampton Archive
Adrian King
Collection Access officer
Southampton City Council
Civic Centre
Southampton
SO14 7LY
Direct line 023 8083 2251
Email city.archives@southampton.gov.uk
if you decide to apply give as much information that you have available such Dis A No R138661, full name DoB, last known address etc
Southampton charge £15:00 (may have gone up) for copies of up to 3 surnames of the same name, extra per sheet for colour copies.
You may even receive a photograph attached to his record
Ray