He served with distinction on . Lieutenant Newton was awarded a presentation sword in 1817 by the city of Alexandria for gallantry during the February 24, 1813 sinking of HMS Peacock by Hornet. On March 23, 1815, Hornet captured , not having received word that the War of 1812 had ended. Captain James Biddle was awarded a Congressional Gold Medal on February 10, 1820 in recognition of this victory, while Newton and others among the crew were awarded silver medals. As of March 20, 1820, Lieutenant Newton was still stationed on Hornet.
