Helm served on various ships and abroad until the
Spanish–American War. He then commanded the gunboat . In the blockade of
Cuba, he captured a Spanish steamer and three contraband schooners. He was advanced five numbers in grade for outstanding performance at the
Battle of Manzanillo on June 30, 1898. Helm subsequently commanded the and . During
World War I, Helm was Commandant of the
4th Naval District and received the
Navy Cross for his achievements. He retired on December 16, 1919. == Personal life ==