returning to pearl harbor on 29 january 1945, the ship took on replacement crews for australia based submarines and sailed for brisbane, arriving 23 february 1945. but the tender was soon underway again, this time sailing via humboldt bay to subic bay, philippines, with supplies for an advanced base. the "howard w. gilmore" arrived 13 march 1945 and immediately started refitting 7th fleet submarines and setting up a recuperation area for their crews. she continued this duty through the climactic days of the pacific war, sailing for the east coast, via pearl harbor and panama 31 august 1945. arriving in new york city on 17 october, the "howard w. gilmore" took part in the navy day celebrations in new york harbor, where the fleet was reviewed by president harry s. truman.