Lorikeet (AMS 49) was laid down as YMS 271 by Bellingham Marine Railway & Boatbuilding Co., Bellingham, Washington, 3 July 1942; launched 17 October; and commissioned 21 April 1943, Lt. Charles E. Scherneck in command from 17 May. Upon completion of shakedown, YMS 271 departed Seattle, Washington, 21 August 1943 to undergo intensive antisubmarine warfare training out of San Diego, California. Two months later she was underway for the Solomon Islands via Samoa and New Caledonia. Arriving 5 November, YMS 271 operated as a screening and escort vessel in the Solomons until 21 July 1944.