 She was designated IX-161 on 7 February 1944, launched on 18 February 1944 sponsored by Mrs. S. C. Anderson, and delivered to the Navy at her builder's yard on 31 August 1944.She was placed in service the same day.Towed by , "Barite" departed San Francisco on 25 September 1944 and entered Pearl Harbor on the morning of 2 October.