He had forsaken a successful business career to become the Lieutenant of Marines for the frigate United States, which was still part of the War Department.

He was quickly promoted to captain in August 1798 and served as officer in charge of the vessel's Marine Detachment until the close of the Quasi-War with France in 1801.

They saw action at Annapolis, Fort McHenry, Portsmouth, Craney Island, Bladensburg and New Orleans, and fought under General Henry Dearborn on the northern frontier.

At sea, they participated in virtually every important naval battle, serving aboard warships and privateers on the Great Lakes, the Atlantic, and the Pacific.

Marines serving aboard the frigate USS United States were commended for their efficiency in its fight with HMS Macedonian.