In the spring of 1914 the Third Squadron – with "Dolphin" as flagship – sailed into Tampico to protect American lives and property. When some sailors from "Dolphin" were arrested by the Mexican government on 9 April 1914, the Tampico Affair took place, which later resulted in the United States occupation of Veracruz. On 23 November 1914, after seven months, the United States withdrew its armed forces. Subsequently, "Dolphin" assisted in the occupation of Santo Domingo from 12 to 22 May 1916. Her career as flagship continued until 1917.