 "Murrelet" was laid down 29 August 1944 by the Savannah Machine & Foundry Co., Savannah, Georgia; launched 29 December 1944; sponsored by Mrs. W. L. Mingledorff; and commissioned 21 August 1945, Lt. Comdr.John E. ("Jack") Wagstaff in command.Following shakedown off Virginia, "Murrelet" departed Little Creek, Virginia, and steamed for Japan, arriving Sasebo on 14 January 1946.