Historical Listing: WWII US Army Transport
Service Button
Inventory Number: TM2462
Item Overview
For the serious militaria collector, we are pleased to offer this rare, authentic WWII-era U.S.
Army Transport Service (ATS) uniform button. This piece features a crisp, high-relief anchor
design with the initials "A.T.S." and bears the classic "SUPERIOR QUALITY" backmark
associated with mid-century military tailoring.
Historical Context: The Army Transport Service
The U.S. Army Transport Service (ATS) was a vital, often unsung, component of the
American war effort during World War II. Responsible for the complex logistics of
transporting troops, equipment, and critical supplies across the Atlantic and Pacific
theaters, the ATS operated a massive fleet of vessels. Its personnel—who were essentially
the "merchant mariners of the Army"—faced incredible dangers, including submarine
warfare and aerial attacks, to ensure the Allied war machine remained supplied.
Because the ATS occupied a unique niche—operating as civilian-manned ships under
military command—their uniforms and insignia were distinct. These custom buttons were
not mass-produced in the millions like standard issue infantry buttons, making them an
essential piece for completing an authentic ATS uniform or display.
A Note on Scarcity
Uniform buttons from the U.S. Army Transport Service are significantly scarcer than
standard Army or Navy issue buttons. Due to the relatively small number of personnel
serving in the ATS compared to the broader military, and the fact that these specialized
maritime uniforms were often retired or discarded post-war, finding individual buttons in
this condition is an uncommon event. This piece serves as a tangible link to a specialized
service that was indispensable to Allied victory.
Specifications
Era: WWII (c. 1940s)
Design: Anchor with "A.T.S." insignia
Material: Gilded/Brass
Size: Approx. 23mm.
Condition: Excellent vintage patina
