Reformed around USS Hornet and commanded by RADM George Murray, TF17 supported Allied forces during the Guadalcanal campaign.

After the battle the task force ceased to exist, the remaining ships (the cruiser and destroyer escorts) were then dispersed to other duties.

In late April 1942, Admiral Chester Nimitz ordered for Rear Admiral Aubrey Fitch, commander of Task Force 11 (TF11) centered on USS Lexington, was ordered to travel to the Coral Sea to join Fletcher's Task Force 17.

[1] The rendezvous took place on 1 May, but Fitch advised Fletcher that he "did not expect to complete fueling till noon on 4 May."

Upon receiving notice regarding the Japanese invasion of Tulagi, RADM Fletcher ordered TF17 to head there, hoping for arrival on the morning of 4 May.

After completing the strikes, Fletcher moved south to rendezvous with Fitch and RADM John Gregory Crace or TF44.