For someone part of the armed forces, a military tattoo design is part of a long standing tradition. In fact, when Julius Caesar and his army were fight tribesmen from Britain, they were amazed at the detailed artwork tattooed on their enemys body. Military tattoos date even further back though than Caesar, being used throughout history to denote rank or position.
Military tattoo designs as we recognize them today really started during the American Civil war. Soldiers from both the North and the South would get tattoos to show which side they were loyal to. Ever since the Civil War, each war has brought about its own inspired tattoo designs.
In the United States, each military branch has a different set of rules and regulations as to what is permitted in a tattoo. Members of the different branches of the armed forces get military tattoos to show their pride for fallen soldiers, their country, religion, or their particular division in the military.
A person in the Navy may choose to get an anchor, a marine an EGA (Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem) or bulldog, a member of the Air Force may get wings or a jet, and someone in the Army may choose to get a tank. The Coast Guard emblem is the most popular design chosen by those in the Coast Guard.
Another popular choice of military tattoo is having ones dog tags tattooed on their ribs. This is most popular amongst those serving in the Army. These are usually done in a very stylized design to make it personal. These tattoos typically have the persons name, social security number, and their preference of religion.
Those serving as medics or in medical units sometimes choose to get the Malta cross, a symbol linked with the Sovereign Order of Malta. This is a Roman Catholic based order and dates back over 1000 years. The order has permanent observer status from the UN and its goal is to assist those in need.
Military tattoo designs are typically placed in locations that are visible, as those getting a military tattoo want people to see them. If you are currently serving in the military or have served in the past, getting a military tattoo design has a very special meaning.
If you are seriously considering getting a tattoo, we suggest you take a look at a site such as Chopper Tattoo. They have the largest selection of high quality, award winning tattoo designs that you can print out and bring to your local tattoo artist. Here is a small gallery of pictures of military tattoo designs:
See More Military Tattoo Designs at Chopper Tattoo.
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