After brief repairs, "Cavalier" joined in rehearsal landings in the Hawaiians, and on 15 September 1944, sailed for Manus, and final preparations for the Leyte landings, first step in the liberation of the Philippines. With the Southern Attack Force, she sailed on 14 October, and after a quiet passage, arrived off Dulag, Leyte on 20 October. Thorough planning and training paid off. "Cavalier's" boats landed troops and equipment smoothly. She remained off the beach, completing her unloading and receiving casualties, until 23 October, when she cleared for Manus on the eve of the Battle for Leyte Gulf.