 On 8 November 1971, "William C. Lawe" put to sea as a member of Destroyer Squadron 16 (DesRon 16), conducting surveillance of four units of the Soviet Navy which were visiting Cuba.The destroyer returned to her home port on 30 November and prepared for an upcoming restricted availability at the Jackonsville Shipyard.On 13 December, the ship began a tender availability with which took her through the end of the year.