From: Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships

(MSO-439: dp. 620; 1. 172'; b. 36'; dr. 10'; s. 16 k.; cpl. 74; a. 1 40mm.; cl. Agile)

The second Excel (AM-439) was launched 25 September 1953 by Higgins Corp., New Orleans, La. sponsored by Mrs. T. G. W. Settle, wife of the Commandant, 8th Naval District, reclassified MSO-439 on 7 February 1955; and commissioned 24 February 1955 Lieutenant R. G. Sipe in command.

Excel arrived at Long Beach, her home port, 4 June 1955, and began operating along the west coast in training and exercises. In 1956 and again in 1959, she served in the Far East with the 7th Fleet, visiting Japan, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Korea, and Taiwan and exercising with ships of friendly navies. Through 1960 she continued to sail out of Long Beach for operations and cruises along the west coast.