A Silver color metal and enamel device 1 3/16 inches (3.02 cm) in height overall consisting of a shield blazoned: Sanguine, between six mullets enarched three (3) and three (3) Argent (Silver Gray), a stylized open book of the first, detailed of the second, surmounted by a sword palewise point downward of the second, grip detailed of the first; on a chief chequy Sable and of the second, a plate charged with a Trojan warriors helmet to sinister bearing a mullet all of the second, crest of the first. Attached below the shield, a bi-parted Black scroll inscribed FIRST TO LEAD and SECOND TO NONE in Silver.
Maroon and white (silver) are the schools colors. The colors are adapted from the two universities maroon from Indiana University and black from Purdue University. The warrior is the battalions mascot and reflects the strength and courage of the cadets military training. The star on the warriors helmet refers to the city flag of Indianapolis. The checkered pattern, indicative of the Indianapolis Speedway, alludes to the geographic location of the University. The open book is indicative of knowledge, academic and military science. The sword represents the military and leadership. The six stars symbolize the six Cultural Districts of Indianapolis: Broad Ripple Village, Massachusetts Avenue, Fountain Square, The Wholesale District, Canal and White River State Park, and Indiana Avenue.
The shoulder loop insignia was originally authorized 10 March 1982. It was cancelled due to the modification of a new design authorized on 18 December 2014.