A Silver color metal an enamel device 1 3/16 inches (3.02 cm) in height overall consisting of a white atomic mushroom bearing vertically throughout a silver stretcher surmounted by a red cross between two silver missiles all above a maroon scroll arched across base inscribed "PATIENTS FIRST" in silver letters.
Maroon and white are the colors used by the Army Medical Department. The mushroom refers to the world's first atomic explosion and alludes to White Sands Missile Range, the location of the installation. The stretcher refers to the aluminum stretcher invented by Doctor McAfee in whose memory the Hospital is designated. The red cross symbolizes the aid and assistance aspect of the organization, while the two missiles denote the Army and Air Force integrated use of its facilities.
The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 30 January 1970.