Apache joined Task Group 53.1 on 4 June 1944 to assist in the invasion of Saipan. The force reached the staging area near Kwajalein on 8 June 1944 and departed for the Mariana Islands on 12 June 1944. The invasion of Guam was postponed due to the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and Task Group 53.1 returned to Eniwetok on 28 June 1944. In mid-July 1944, "Apache" headed back to the Marianas and took part in the preinvasion bombardment of Guam and, after the landings, helped to clear amphibious warfare vessels from the beach. On 21 July 1944, "Apache" screened the transport area off Guam.