[3] Subsequent to her commissioning and a period of test and trials, Avenger arrived in her homeport of NS Charleston, South Carolina,[3] and began operating as a member of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet.

Avenger was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation and Combat Action Ribbon for her wartime accomplishments.

In 2001 Avenger deployed to the Eastern Pacific via the Panama Canal and conducted Joint, Combined, and Bilateral exercises and operations on the West Coast.

In 2004, the Avenger deployed to participate in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC), and in October of that year the ship returned to her homeport of Ingleside, Texas.

In 2009, Avenger shifted her homeport to San Diego and then in December became permanently forward deployed to Sasebo, Japan.