Shortland Islands
Capt. Arleigh A. Burke assumed command of DesRon 23 on 23 October, and the squadron became known as the "Little Beavers." On 1 November, "Spence" participated in the bombardment of Buka and Bonis airfields and of Japanese positions in the Shortland Islands to support the Landings at Cape Torokina, Bougainville.