 "Keppler" was launched on 24 June 1946 by Bethlehem Steel Corporation, Shipbuilding Division, San Francisco, California sponsored by Mrs. Elizabeth L. Keppler, widow of BM1c Keppler; and commissioned on 23 May 1947, Commander Peter M. Gaviglio in command.After shakedown along the West Coast, "Keppler" cleared San Diego, California on 9 October 1947 for training exercises in Hawaiian waters.The destroyer then sailed to Australia and China before returning San Diego on 20 May 1948.