Admiral in the French Navy.

Named chef d’escadre (1778) and placed at the head of a naval division sent to the Antilles. Commander of the French forces stationed at the îles du vent (1780). His victory over the British naval forces commanded by admiral Graves was instrumental in the American victory at the battle of Yorktown (1781).

Recognized by the United States Congress for services rendered to the American Army at Yorktown (1782).

The publication of his Mémoire justificatif des événements d’avril, in which he criticized the conduct of his subordinate officers during the war, brought about his disgrace and resignation from military service (1782).