She was laid down as HMS Duff (BDE-20) for the Royal Navy on 15 April 1942 by Mare Island Navy Yard; launched on 21 November 1942; sponsored by Mrs. Bert A. Barr; retained for use in the U.S. Navy and renamed LeHardy on 19 February 1943; and commissioned on 15 May 1943, Lt. Comdr. J. H. Prause in command.