6013 ASU, Ft. Lawaton, Wash.

• Unit Designation: 6013th Army Service Unit (ASU) was a key logistical and administrative support unit at Fort Lawton, Seattle, Washington, during and after World War II. • Post-War Role: Following WWII, 6013 ASU played a crucial part in processing returning troops and managing the outflow of soldiers being demobilized. • Prisoner of War Operations: The unit was involved in the administration and oversight of German and Italian POWs housed at Fort Lawton. • Fort Lawton Riot: In August 1944, a riot involving African American soldiers and Italian POWs occurred at Fort Lawton; the 6013 ASU was deeply involved in the aftermath and investigation. • Mass Court-Martial: The Fort Lawton Riot led to one of the largest and most controversial court-martials of African American soldiers during WWII, with the 6013 ASU providing logistical and administrative support. • Port of Embarkation: Fort Lawton, and by extension 6013 ASU, served as a major port of embarkation for soldiers heading to the Pacific Theater, as well as a point of reentry on their return. • Red Ball Express: Members of the 6013 ASU were involved in organizing and supporting the "Red Ball Express," a famed truck convoy system that supplied Allied forces in Europe. • Integration of the Armed Forces: The experiences and controversies surrounding the 6013 ASU and Fort Lawton contributed to the national dialogue that led to the eventual desegregation of the U.S. military in 1948. • Post-War Housing: After the war, facilities managed by the 6013 ASU were used to house homeless veterans and displaced persons, highlighting the unit’s humanitarian role. • Legacy: The stories of the 6013 ASU and its personnel have been chronicled in books, documentaries, and a National Park Service exhibit at Discovery Park, which now occupies the former Fort Lawton site.