With the declaration of war, Itasca was reassigned to the Fourth Naval District headquartered at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and was refitted for anti-submarine service with the addition of 3-inch rapid-fire guns and a Y-gun for launching depth charges.
With the declaration of war, Itasca was transferred to the Fourth Naval District based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and was refurbished for anti-submarine operations by installing 3-inch rapid-fire guns and a Y-gun for launching depth charges.