A gold color metal and enamel device 1 3/16 inches (3.02 cm) in height overall consisting of a light blue background arched and indented at the top and in base a green stylized open wreath of wild thyme, surmounted overall by a gold Eastern crown (with rays extending to outer edge) and bearing a maroon Greek cross charged with a white moline cross.
The maroon cross represents the medical facilities at Fort MacArthur. The white moline cross and the Eastern crown were suggested by the shield of the coat of arms of the MacArthur clan, and alludes to Lieutenant General Arthur MacArthurs outstanding service in the Philippine Islands 1898-99 and as military governor of the Philippine Islands 1900-01. The garland of wild thyme (mint), also the crest of the MacArthur clan, symbolizes courage and activity; and in medieval days, thyme mixed with honey was considered a potent remedy for pulmonary diseases.
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the U.S. Army Hospital, Fort MacArthur on 26 October 1970. It was redesignated for the U.S. Army Medical Department Activity, Fort MacArthur on 12 August 1973. The insignia was rescinded on 30 September 1976.