Carp (SS-338) was launched 12 November 1944 by Electric Boat Company, Groton, Connecticut; sponsored by Mrs. W. E. Hess; and commissioned 28 February 1945.

Based in San Diego as flagship for Submarine Division 71, Carp operated along the West Coast with occasional training cruises to Pearl Harbor.

Converted to a Fleet Snorkel-type submarine in February 1952, which added to her submerged speed and endurance, Carp supported United Nations' forces in the Korean War during her cruise of 22 September 1952–April 1953 to the Far East.

During this time she continued to make cruises to the Far East, one of which included a good-will visit to Australia and participation in a Southeast Asia Treaty Organization exercise, and to Alaskan waters.

Around 1971, Carp was moored at South Boston Naval Annex, across the harbor from Logan International Airport at about the point where Interstate 90 now crosses.