After conducting brief operations along the eastern seaboard and in the Caribbean, Bullard proceeded to the Pacific, arriving at Pearl Harbor 29 August 1943.

With the exception of one voyage to California (10 September 1944 – 18 February 1945) she operated constantly in forward areas of the Pacific rendering fire support, plane guard, patrol, and radar picket services.

She participated in On 11 April 1945, during the Okinawa operation Bullard was slightly damaged by a Japanese kamikaze.

After the cessation of hostilities, Bullard remained in the Far East engaged in occupation duties until 10 November 1945, when she departed for San Pedro, Calif., arriving on 3 December.

Bullard received nine battle stars for her World War II service.