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Commandant’s message on tattoos

Date signed: 03/19/2007       

Subject: Changes to the Marine Corps tattoo policy

1. High standards of professional military appearance remain a part of our Marine Corps heritage. We serve proudly in every region of the world, in peace and in combat, fulfilling our role of America’s ambassadors and defenders of freedom. The eyes of America and the world continually focus upon us and they expect that the Marine Corps will maintain the highest professional standards at all times.

2. Recently, I have become concerned over the growing trend of tattooing in our Corps. 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. Some Marines have taken the liberty of tattooing themselves to a point that is contrary to our professional demeanor and the high standards America has come to expect from us. Marines must understand that acquiring excessive tattoos may adversely affect both their retention and assignment to special duty.

3. To that end, I directed a thorough revision of our tattoo policy. The policy changes resulting from this review will be announced in a MarAdmin, released concurrently with this Almar. Commanders must ensure their Marines are educated regarding changes to the Marine Corps tattoo policy.

4. Semper Fidelis, James T. Conway, General, U.S. Marine Corps,

Commandant of the Marine Corps.