After undergoing shakedown trials, Butler engaged in escort work in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.

She screened heavy units of the bombardment group and served at the inshore fire support station during this assault.

Reclassified DMS-29 on 15 November, her conversion was completed on 21 December, and she proceeded to Norfolk and joined Mine Squadron 20 (MineRon 20).

On 3 January 1945, the ship weighed anchor for Naval Station San Diego en route to Pearl Harbor.

The battleship West Virginia stood by Butler until power was regained, and assisted in driving off two more Japanese planes.