On a shield shaped embroidered item edged with a 1/8 inch (.32 cm) black border, blazoned as follows: Argent, a keystone Argent (Silver Gray) fimbriated Gules, overall in chief a Hiawatha Belt (Iroquois Covenant Chain) throughout Sable, superimposed in centre by an oak tree fructed and eradiated Brn, the keystone is surmounted by a chevron abased of the third bearing three mullets of the first. Attached above the shield, a Silver Gray scroll with rounded corners edged with a 1/8 inch (.32 cm) Black border inscribed "FRONTIER BATTALION" in Red letters. The overall dimensions are 3 1/4 inches (8.26 cm) in height and 2 7/8 inches (7.30 cm) in width.
Kelly green and white are the University's colors. The color red reflects the courage and strength of Pennsylvania. The acorn shape represents the mighty oak, a national symbol of strength and growth; also taken from the Duquesne Family coat of arms. The keystone is a Pennsylvania state symbol. The Iroquois Covenant Chain represents the Native American influence to this region of Western Pennsylvania. The chevron in base signifies protection and is charged with three stars taken from the George Washington's coat of arms.
The shoulder sleeve insignia was originally authorized 24 July 1985. It was cancelled due to a new design and updated description and symbolism on 27 February 2013. (TIOH Drawing Number A-10S-9)