 West sailed aboard "Buckingham", Flag-Captain Michael Everitt, and the fleet saw action on 20 May 1756, the day after their arrival.West had command of the van, which attacked the rear of the French van and drew heavy fire.In the rear, Byng, who had insufficient sail on to promptly come up and support the van, declined to put on further sail, citing the court-martial of Thomas Mathews at the Battle of Toulon.