Portgas D. Ace played a significant role in the Whitebeard Pirates. Initially, he was the captain of the Spade Pirates and was even offered a position as a Shichibukai, which he turned down. After a failed attempt to kill Whitebeard, he was offered a place in the Whitebeard Pirates and became a division commander. Ace was highly regarded and had authority over lower-ranking subordinates. He was one of the strongest pirates on board, under Whitebeard himself. However, when Blackbeard betrayed the crew, Ace left on a mission to capture him, showcasing his loyalty and dedication to the crew.