On 20 January 1945, "New Kent" left San Diego with the January replacements for the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing and cargo destined for Majuro and Kwajalein in the Marshall Islands. "New Kent" arrived at Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, on 26 January, and departed on 30 January en route for Majuro escorted by . While underway, the escort in attempting to regain proper station, rammed "New Kent" amidships sustaining severe damage to herself but was able to proceed under her own power to Pearl Harbor. "New Kent" proceeded to Majuro arriving on 6 February, and left 7 February, arriving at Kwajalein the following day.