The family had long been involved with local government having held the office of Sheriff of Devon 5 times and having produced several members of parliament.
In June 1621 he and Sir Thomas Wilsford sunk one of the Algerians best Man-of-war ships, helped put other galleys to flight, and on his return to England received 30 pounds as Bounty (reward).
The relief expedition did not arrive in time and on his return to England his ship was badly damaged which temporarily put him out of command and instead he was given a place on the council of war in 1628.
His fellow councilors appointed him and two other captains to advise the Duke of Buckingham on the number of ships he would need to provide a constant guard of the Narrow Seas.
While he was on the council he submitted several proposals including one which he had made as early as 1625 to have temporary hospitals in convenient places to treat the ill and wounded.
The Board of Admiralty nominated him to serve as Admiral of the Narrow Seas but this was overruled by Charles I of England who perhaps recalled his tardiness in October 1627 and appointed Chudleighs former peer John Penington.