Are you a tattoo enthusiast looking for the latest information on tattoo policies? The Marine Corps has recently released a new tattoo policy that aims to balance the personal desires of Marines with high standards of professional military appearance and heritage. In this article, we will explore the details of the Marine Corps’ new tattoo policy and provide you with all the information you need to know.
Understanding the New Tattoo Policy
The Marine Corps Bulletin 1020, released on June 2, 2016, replaces all previous tattoo policy guidance. The policy emphasizes that any tattoo, regardless of its location, must not express sexism, nudity, racism, vulgarity, or anything offensive that could bring discredit to the Marine Corps or damage the nation’s expectations of them.
Under the new policy, Marines are allowed to have an unlimited number of tattoos that are covered by the properly fitting standard physical training uniform, which consists of a green t-shirt and green shorts. However, there are specific areas where Marines are prohibited from getting tattoos, including the head, neck, inside the mouth, wrists, knees, elbows, and hands, with the exception of a single band tattoo of no more than three-eighths of an inch in width on one finger.
Balancing Individual Desires and Grooming Standards
The new tattoo policy reflects the efforts of the Marine Corps Commandant and Marine Corps leadership to balance the individual desires of Marines with the need to maintain a disciplined appearance. The Commandant has personally invested time and effort in the development of this policy to ensure that Marines’ opinions are heard and considered. The policy allows Marines more freedom and flexibility to express themselves while being clearly written and understandable for both Marines and their leadership.
Guidelines for Visible Tattoos
The bulletin mainly focuses on the standards for visible tattoos, which are tattoos that can be seen outside of the properly fitting PT uniform. There are specific guidelines for different body parts:
- Band tattoos: Marines may have band tattoos that fully encircle the circumference of a body part. These tattoos cannot exceed three inches or the width of an individual Marine’s four fingers joined.
- Upper arm tattoos: Visible upper arm tattoos may extend down and around the arm on all sides, no closer than two inches above the center of the elbow. The tattoo must not be larger than the individual Marine’s hand with their fingers extended and joined, with the thumb flush against the side of the hand.
- Lower arm tattoos: Marines can have only one lower arm tattoo, which must be at least one inch below the center of the elbow and two inches above the wrist bone. The tattoo can be an authorized band tattoo, a single tattoo, or a collection of tattoos that can be covered by the individual Marine’s hand with their fingers extended and joined, with the thumb flush against the side of the hand.
- Upper leg tattoos: Visible upper leg tattoos may extend down and around the leg on all sides, no closer than two inches above the center of the knee when the leg is straight. The tattoo must not be larger than the individual Marine’s hand with their fingers extended and joined, with the thumb flush against the side of the hand.
- Lower leg tattoos: Marines can have only one lower leg tattoo, which must be at least two inches below the center of the knee. The tattoo can be an authorized band tattoo, a single tattoo, or a collection of tattoos that can be covered by the individual Marine’s hand with their fingers extended and joined, with the thumb flush against the side of the hand.
Special Duty Assignments and Consequences
Marines who are in compliance with the standards listed in the new tattoo policy regarding visible tattoos will be able to serve on special duty assignments, such as recruiting duty, Marine security guard duty, drill instructor duty, Marine security force duty, and Marine combat instructor duty. However, Marines who have tattoos that do not comply with the new policy but are already on assignment or have received orders for special duty assignments will finish their tour but will not be eligible for another one.
It is important for Marines to understand that violating any policy has consequences, and leadership will hold Marines accountable accordingly. As a Marine, it is not only your responsibility to abide by the policy but also to ensure that your tattoos are reviewed and documented properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Marines have tattoos on their head, neck, inside the mouth, wrists, knees, elbows, and hands?
A: No, Marines are prohibited from getting tattoos in these areas, with the exception of a single band tattoo of no more than three-eighths of an inch in width on one finger.
Q: How many visible tattoos are Marines allowed to have?
A: Marines can have band tattoos, upper arm tattoos, and lower arm tattoos, but there are specific guidelines regarding their size and placement. It is best to refer to the Marine Corps Bulletin 1020 for detailed information.
Q: What are the consequences of violating the new tattoo policy?
A: Violating the policy can have consequences, and leadership will hold Marines accountable accordingly. However, it is crucial to note that the purpose of documenting non-compliant tattoos is for documentation purposes only and is not a disciplinary action.
Q: Can Marines on special duty assignments have visible tattoos that do not comply with the new policy?
A: No, Marines on special duty assignments must be in compliance with the standards listed in the new tattoo policy regarding visible tattoos.
Conclusion
The Marine Corps’ new tattoo policy strikes a balance between the individual desires of Marines and the need to maintain high standards of professional military appearance and heritage. The policy provides guidelines for visible tattoos, ensuring that Marines have the freedom to express themselves while upholding the values and expectations of the Marine Corps. It is crucial for Marines to understand and abide by the policy to avoid any consequences. For more information and details, please refer to the Marine Corps Bulletin 1020.
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