"Jubilant" was launched 20 February 1943 by American Shipbuilding Co., Lorain, Ohio; sponsored by Mrs. C. D. Bishop; and commissioned 27 August, Lt. (j.g.) W. P. Sprunt in command. "Jubilant" departed Lorain 13 September and steamed via Quebec and Argentia, Newfoundland for Little Creek, Virginia. While sailing along the Atlantic coast, she made a submarine contact, 23 October and launched a depth charge and hedgehog attack which resulted in a probable hit. Arriving Little Creek the 23d, she commenced 4 months of minesweeping and escort training, then departed 1 March 1944 for convoy escort duty in the South Atlantic.