The American Export Line and later the Isthmian Steamship Company operated her under the United States Merchant Marine act for the War Shipping Administration.

Completed on March 31, 1945 the New Bern Victory did not operate during active World War II operations, as the surrender of Imperial Japan was announced on August 15, 1945.

She departed the so-called Cigarette Camps in Europe to bring troops home.

The three cargo ships had accommodation for 12 passengers added and were renamed.

She steamed from New York in August 1947 to the first run of her new South African cargo liner service.

In 1969 she was sold to Fairwind Maritime Corporation in Panama and renamed the Isabena.