 On 16 May 1972, "Worden" began a restricted availability at Yokosuka, Japan, followed by missile tests at Okinawa.On 20 June, she returned to duties at the southern SAR station, operating off Cape Mui Ron for the next month.After a brief visit to Yokosuka, "Worden" returned to the Gulf of Tonkin on 9 August and served as escort for the carriers and "Kitty Hawk".