John L. Hall
Following shakedown in the Chesapeake Bay, the amphibious force flagship, escorted by USS "Barr" (APD-39), steamed south; transited the Panama Canal;proceeded, via the Mare Island Navy Yard, to Hawaii; and arrived at Pearl Harbor on 19 January 1945. In Pearl Harbor the ship's captain was relieved of his command for hitting the wall of the Panama Canal during the transit. Four days later, Rear Admiral John L. Hall, Commander, Amphibious Group 12, Amphibious Forces, Pacific Fleet, hoisted his flag as his staff came on board.