[2] In Greyhound, he took part in the action against the Penobscot Expedition in July 1779 and fought at the Battle of Martinique in April 1780 during the American Revolutionary War.

[2] He was next given command of the third-rate HMS Dublin and saw action at the Battle of Cape Spartel in October 1782.

[2] Promoted to rear-admiral on 12 April 1794, and vice-admiral on 1 June 1795, Dickson became Commander-in-Chief, North Sea in 1800.

[4] In August 1800, a diplomatic mission was sent to Copenhagen under Lord Whitworth, accompanied by a fleet under Dickson's command.

[5] He was promoted to full admiral on 1 January 1801,[2] with HMS Princess of Orange at Yarmouth serving as his flagship.