Marine Corp Tattoo policy questions

[darkgremio]

Well I wanna get a tattoo related to my MOS, I am 1833 AAVs and I wanted to get good taste tattoo but I dont know if this would violate the tattoo policy I wanna get it on my forearm a 50 cal. ammo link around my forearm is this authorized?

[DevilNuts]

It is my understanding that getting tattoos is permitted as long as they follow certain guidelines: size, location and subject.

Aside from the head, neck and arms (always a no-no) the forearms are the most visible part of the body while in uniform; not only are they seen in PT gear, but also in your chucks. There is a size limit, something having to do with proximity to other tattoos on the same body part (not sure about that one) and of course it can't be cult or gang related.

A good question would be who is the right person to ask about this? I would say consult the order.

[USMC_8156]

I'm pretty sure that would be against the order. And are you sure you're going to want .50 cal shells around your forearms when you get out?

[DevilNuts]

Here we go, the tattoo order (p1020.34g paragraph 1004.1C):The old order was cancelled and updates as of MARADMIN 198/07


Tattoos or brands on the head and neck are prohibited. Sleeve
tattoos are likewise prohibited. A sleeve tattoo is a very large tattoo, or
a collection of smaller tattoos, that covers or almost covers a person’s
entire arm or leg. Half-sleeve or quarter-sleeve tattoos that are visible to
the eye when wearing standard physical training gear (t-shirt and shorts) are
likewise prohibited. A half-sleeve or quarter-sleeve tattoo is defined as a
very large tattoo, or a collection of smaller tattoos that covers, or almost
covers the entire portion of an arm or leg above or below the elbow or knee.
Tattoos or brands that are prejudicial to good order, discipline and morale,
or are of a nature to bring discredit upon the Marine Corps are also
prohibited. “Prejudicial to good order, discipline and morale or are of a
nature to bring discredit to the Marine Corps” may include, but are not
limited to, any tattoo that is sexist, racist, vulgar, anti-American, antisocial,
gang related, or extremist group or organization related. MARADMIN
198/07

The way the order is worded I would imagine that a .50 cal tattoo would not be a big deal, as long as it isn't ginormous. A good idea would be to get a picture of the design you want and show it to your command (your 1stSgt perhaps) This way if it is objectionable they will tell you instead of burning you for it after the fact, and you will probably also earn a few brownie points with your command for doing the responsible thing and asking for their blessing.