After fitting out and conducting sea trials, Velocity took on further supplies, underwent yard work at New Orleans, Louisiana, conducted minesweeping training out of Burrwood, Louisiana, and practiced anti-submarine tactics out of Key West, Florida.
Velocity subsequently escorted floating drydocks ABD-1 and ABD-2 and their tows, and , to the New Hebrides Islands, arriving at Espiritu Santo on 24 September.