Following shakedown training, she spent the rest of 1961 off the California coast in amphibious exercises.

She took part in amphibious exercises and performed repair services for the next four years.

During that time, the ship participated in two amphibious exercises and visited several Mediterranean ports.

Her first assignment saw her underway for a major amphibious exercise in Hawaii.

She finished out 1973 with availability periods, refresher training, and amphibious exercises.

She also participated in several amphibious exercises during that period.

While on the west coast, she frequently operated in amphibious exercises with marines.

These included amphibious exercises, an operational readiness inspection, and type training.

Between 29 November and 3 December, the ship got underway for one final amphibious exercise period.

Her last major duty was to take part in amphibious exercises shortly before decommissioning.