In the early 1800s, he commanded merchant ships out of Boston. When war between the United States and Great Britain broke out in 1812, Aylwin was appointed lieutenant in the United States Navy and became sailing master in the frigate Constitution.
He was commended for gallantry during the engagement with HMS Guerriere on 19 August 1812 but was severely wounded during the engagement with HMS Java on 29 December, and died at sea on 28 January 1813.
Source: Naval Historical Center including Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.
