The oilers and their escorts continued to operate out of Ulithi well into November, supporting the vast aircraft carrier task forces striking the Philippines.

In December, the destroyer moved to Guam for independent operation as an escort and patrol ship in the Marshall and Mariana Islands.

Arriving 2 days later, she took part in the pre-invasion bombardment and, after the assault on Iwo Jima 19 February, performed yeoman fire support, screening, and radar picket duties during the bitter fighting ashore.

Her assignment consisted of screening the light carriers as their planes provided vital air support to ground troops.

Undergoing periodic air attacks, she continued to screen her carrier group, with occasional logistics stops at Kerama Retto until 24 June.