[2][3] Baker entered the Royal Navy in December 1797 as a first class volunteer aboard the frigate Unite under the command of Captain Charles Rowley.

On 20 March the Reynard destroyed a large French privateer General Ernouf, as a result of which Baker's commission was confirmed and backdated to 18 October 1804.

Baker in Anholt played a major part in the defeat of the enemy by bearing down along the northern shore of the island, and placing them between two fires.

In the despatches of Captain James Alexander Gordon, he was praised for his conduct, particularly for his part in preventing the grounded Devastation from falling into the hands of the enemy.

[4] On 29 July 1840, Baker was selected by Vice-Admiral Sir Henry Digby, Commander-in-Chief, The Nore, to be his flag captain in the Howe at Sheerness.

In October 1841, a few days after transferring with Digby to Camperdown, while in attendance on the Lords of the Admiralty, he unfortunately broke his leg and received other severe injuries.