A captain in the Army of the Holy Roman Empire, Birt took part in the Austro-Turkish War of 1737–1739. In 1737, he formed a company, largely composed of "Junii Brașoveni" troops. Under orders from Field Marshal Count Wallis, Birt and his men engaged the Ottoman forces at Pitești, capturing 36 prisoners of war. Even after retiring from the hussars, Birt continued to sign as “captain”, underscoring his prestige. Wallis awarded him a medal, as did three other commanders, including Prince Lobkowitz and Count Traun.