Thread: US Marines ban visible tattoos

WASHINGTON (AFP) - US Marines may be tough, but after April 1 they won't be able to show it with big tattoos.

Marine Corps Commandant James Conway has slapped a ban on new tattoos that are visible when a marine is dressed in shorts and a T-shirt.

Effective April 1, "Marines are prohibited from: tattoos or brands on the head and neck. Sleeve tattos are likewise prohibited," the new regulations stated.

The regulations explain that a sleeve tattoo "is a very large tattoo, or a collection of smaller tattoos, that covers or almost covers a persons entire arm or leg."

It said half-sleeve tattoos, or quarter sleeve tattoos also are prohibited if they are visible when a marine is wearing shorts and a T-shirt.

"Tattoos or brands that are prejudicial to good order, discipine and morale, or are of a nature to bring discredit upon the Marine Corps are also prohibited," it said.

That includes "any tattoo that is sexist, racist, vulgar, anti-America, anti-social, gang related, or extremist group or organization related."

Marines already covered in tattoos can keep them.

But they have to document them with a signed and dated photograph for their records and measurements of each tattoo.

In a message, Conway said he was concerned about the growing use of tattoos.

"I understand many tattoos are in good taste, and many represent pride for our Corps or remembrance of fallen comrades. However, I believe tattoos of an excessive nature do not represent our traditional values."

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070330/od_afp/usmilitarymarines_070330112027;_ylt=AuLhXxZR1K78mE x4Ev3wisOgOrgF

Notice the date this "ban" is supposed to take place..... :