A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86cm) in height overall, consisting of a silver disc bearing eight radiating red rays and issuing from a stylized blue and silver Mount Fuji, overall a silver torii gate enclosed in base by a circular black scroll inscribed "SUPPORTING THE ORIENT" in silver letters.
Japan is represented by three well-known national symbols the rising sun, Mount Fuji and a torii gate. "Source of the Sun" is the translation of Nippon, the Japanese name for the country, referred to by the sun and rays. Mount Fuji represents the cultural heart of the nation. The torii gate stands for the spiritual life and heritage of Japan. In addition to traditional national significance, the rays of the sun refer also to national self-defense forces. Red represents courage and the support branch. Red, white (silver) and blue stand for the United States. Black denotes integrity.
The distinctive unit insignia was authorized on 10 Jun 1991.