[3] Tarbell was appointed midshipman on board of USS Constitution in the United States Navy on 5 December 1798.
Under Commodore Edward Preble's command, he took part in the 1804 blockade of Tripoli[5] and was among those honored by Congress for services rendered during that action.
[8][9] From 19 to 23 June 1813 Tarbell commanded a boat expedition against the British squadron off Craney Island and in the James River.
He was commended by his superior, Commodore Stephen Cassin, and by the army officers ashore (Lt Col Henry Beatty) for his gallantry and assistance in the defense of Craney Island.
This article incorporates text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.