"kaskaskia" cleared boston, mass19 november 1940 for pearl harbor, arriving 3 january 1941. she transported oil between west coast ports and pearl harbor, making six cruises before 7 august, when she made an oil run to johnston island. the oiler returned to mare island 10 september for overhaul and repairs. in san francisco when the japanese made their surprise attack on pearl harbor, "kaskaskia" immediately began preparations to join the service force in the pacific.