On 27 December 1943, "Lynx", with Section 13 of the advanced base sectional dock in tow astern, sailed as flagship of Task Group (TG) 116.15.3, Commander Arthur S. Walton, in company with sister ships , towing , and , with astern, and , towing , escorted by the fleet tug , set course for the South Pacific. During the afternoon watch on 14 January 1944, "Zuni" left her position in the formation and came alongside, transferring Sea1c Hugh W. Morris, diagnosed with appendicitis, to "Lynx", for medical treatment. Lieutenant Herman E. Wuestenfeld, MC-V(G), the cargo ship's medical officer, performed an appendectomy later that same day, 20:34-21:40.