After training exercises in the New Hebrides in January 1944, "Columbia" helped spearhead the attack and occupation of Nissan, one of the Green Islands from 13 to 18 February. Early in March, her group swept along the line between Truk and Kavieng in search of enemy shipping, then covered the assault and occupation of Emirau Island from 17 to 23 March. On 4 April, "Columbia" sailed from Port Purvis in the Solomon Islands for an overhaul at San Francisco, returning to the Solomons on 24 August.