OldVersion: A device of silver color metal and enamel 2 inches (5.08 cm) in diameter consisting of a white disc with a blue border an inner white disc with a red border bearing a blue and white adaptation of the coat of arms of the United States between the inscription UNITED STATES ARMY in red letters at top and RETIRED in blue letters at bottom. New Version: A device of gold color metal and enamel 2 inches (5.08 cm) in diameter consisting of the U.S. Army Star logo surroundedby a black designation band inscribed RETIRED at top and SOLDIER FOR LIFE at bottom in gold.

The coat of arms, with red, white and blue, symbolize the nation. The circle represents accomplishment and the completed career of military service in the United States Army. New Version: The U.S. Army Star logo is the most recognized image associated with the United States Army.

The badge is worn on the wearers leftside. Personnel may wear the badge only in service and dress uniforms after officially retired from the U.S. Army. Either the old version or new version is authorized for wear per paragraph 22-17, DA PAM 670-1.

OldVersion: The badge was created for the U.S. Army Retired SSI to be worn on the Army Service Uniform in May 2010. New Version: The Secretary of the Army approved the badge design on 29 July 2014.