A gold color metal and enamel device 1 3/16 inches (3.02 cm) in height overall consisting of mountain peaks and a gold rayed sun all behind a maroon inverted fleam, in base a red (scarlet) cross with equal arms between four gold grape leaves, above all a semicircular maroon scroll, with ends turned back, and inscribed in gold letters, "NOT FOR SELF BUT OTHERS."
The center of the State seal of New York depicting the sun coming up over the mountain is used here to symbolize the area where the 2d General Hospital was organized in February 1917 and also to represent the healing power of the sun and the hope of good health. The inverted fleam, a symbolic surgical instrument simulates the numeral TWO. The sun here representing service in World War I, and the four grape leaves, a symbol of endurance, stand for battle honors in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Ardennes-Alsace during World War II.
The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 2 January 1969.