The Reasoning for Tattoos in the US Army

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Tattoos have likely been at the top of the list as the most discussed topic amongst the different social classes. There is a divide between societies understanding of tattoos, those who oppose them identify tattoos as being a form of “taboo” and is associated with a type of body modification that is seen as distasteful in nature. Others believe tattoos are a form of one’s own self-expression. Although tattoos are subjective to each person, we should not completely rule them out altogether because they are perceived and sometimes deemed inappropriate, that is a form of stereotyping. Being in the U.S Army, maintaining a high level of professionalism is key to good work ethic, it allows opportunities for advancement into leadership roles as well as the image a person exudes. This follows the age old concept of, “To be the part, you have to look the part.” Image plays an enormous role in many military careers, when wearing the uniform your peers often view you as being a professional and is reciprocated through your actions. There are many individuals in the armed forces with tattoos; I am one of them. Throughout my career I have worked alongside a multitude of people who have different viewpoints on the subject and have had no problems expressing them. Many, more often than not vocalize that tattoos have no place in the U.S Army, this usually comes from peers and subordinates alike who were birthed in a more conservative time period. When questioned on my rationale behind getting tattooed, I simply explain to each of them the importance of each one and what it symbolizes for me. The normal response I tend to receive is, “If the U.S Army wanted you to have tattoos, they would’ve made it mandatory when enlisting.” My rebuttal is alway... ... middle of paper ... ...o it or not, tattoos are and will likely remain subjective to the masses. Open-mindedness is a huge benefactor necessary when dealing with situations and interrelationships involving tattoos. The United States is a “melting pot” containing different cultures and diversities that genuinely make us unique along with the practices and ways we choose to represent ourselves. Works Cited Jeffreys, Sheila. “Body Modification is a Form of Self-Mutilation.” Self –Mutilation. Ed. Mary E. Williams. Detroit: Greehaven Press, 2008. Opposing Viewpoints. Rpt. from “Body Modification as Self-Mutilation by Proxy.” Online Opinion. 2006. Opposing Viewpoints in Context. Web. 25 Feb. 2013. Keinlen, Alexis. 2005. “Skin deep: Tattoos Mark the Body’s Surface. But their Inspiration Draws from a Deeper Source.” Herizons.com. Herizons, Fall 2005, 19 (2): 24-28. Web. 19. 2014.

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