View Full Version : Tattoo on an 18A wannabe...
Gentlemen,
I have done some searching but i couldn't find a specific answer on the issue of my possessing an Eagle Globe and Anchor tattoo on my chest and whether A.) it will be a problem as far as the Army is concerned in regards to getting accepted at some point in the future to SFAS, and B.) whether it will be an issue for quiet professionals I will hopefully work with. The reason I ask is because I have not gotten said tattoo yet. I don't have any and refrained from getting one while I was in the Corps because at the time I wanted to go to school and work for an OGA (which i had heard frowned on body marks, could be an old wives tale but i was being cautious.) but since i have chosen a path that will hopefully lead me to your fraternity of QP's I am considering getting the EGA i have always wanted as a reminder of my past and of the Marines i fought and bled with overseas. Any opinions even negative ones are greatly appreciated. Again just trying to find out if getting it will hurt me in any way career or respect wise. Thank you gents.
SGT "Atilla"
Sounds like an illegal gang related tattoo to me.
The Reaper
01-28-2009, 19:51
I think it is a bad idea.
You will be permanently marked as an American and a Marine, in a fairly obvious place.
Hardly fits in with the concept of being a QP, IMHO.
Plenty of time to tat up and brag after you retire.
TR
If you are asking then that means that you have that little voice saying, "Are you sure this is a good idea?" I've found MY little voice to be pretty damn smart...I listen to it.
Why take any chances, why limit any options? Doesn't make sense to me.
As TR said, plenty of time to get a tat when you're done. Plenty of other ways to remember and honor your fellow warrior marines in the meantime.
my $0.02.
Matta mile
01-28-2009, 20:30
You may put others at risk.
MM
Gentlemen,
Thank you for your sage advice, you have readjusted me and helped me to think clearly about it. The problem here is that I need to be comfortable with my new uniform, always remembering my past but be proud of being a soldier and remember that the reason I am doing this is to join your ranks eventually, to serve my country, and to lead brave young Americans with the same intensity, intelligence, and fervor I had the good grace to be led with. I know I have a ways to go and a lot of respect to earn and lessons to learn before I am even eligible to try to join the QP's but to me this is the most important thing and I don't need a tat to remind me that I can be a Marine and a Soldier and that, as we sometimes lamely say, I have an EGA branded on my heart. Maybe someday Ill be able to add a tab above it. Sorry to get motto but the advice really means a lot. Thank you gents.
SGT "Atilla"
Blitzzz (RIP)
01-28-2009, 22:42
I got my tattoo of an SF insignia on my left pec about 8 years after I retired.
When I was a young SF soldier tattoos were really frond upon because of "identifying markings were not desired. Could have actually have kept us from some realy good missions. Blitzzz
Longstreet
01-28-2009, 22:57
Could have actually have kept us from some realy good missions. Blitzzz
Given the risk of being easily identified, I always wondered if SF/SOF personnel ever got tattoos that displayed their profession while on active duty. Any particular reason you waited eight years after retiring?
Dozer523
01-28-2009, 23:02
When I have found myself pondering questions such as the one posed here, I often find myself approaching the most sage singer-song-writer I know. I have found that his wisdom is limitless and his depth of subject immeasurable. If it's important. . . Jimmy has sung about it.
To answer your question I offer Jimmy Buffet's Permanent Reminder of a Temporary Feeling form the album Beachhouse On The Moon.
Permanent Reminder of a Temporary Feeling
She was no Marine back from the Philippines
she was their pride and joy, their incarnation.
Her parents viewed the chief with shock and disbelief
looking for some other explanation.
The indian on her back was poised for an attack.
She said "A tatoo is a badge of validation."
But the truth of the matter is far more revealing
it's a permanent reminder of a temporary feeling.
Permanent reminder
of a temporary feeling,
amnesiac episodes that never go away.
It's no complex momemto, it's not set of revealing.
Just a permanent reminder of a temporary feeling.
Vegas in the rain,
drunk on cheap champagne,
he hears out of tune synthesized chapel bells painfully ringing.
Where's his limo ride?
Who's this foreign bride?
Is that really Elvis spinning around the ceiling?
Permanent reminder
of a temporary feeling,
amnesiac episodes that never go away.
It's no complex momemto, it's not set of revealing.
Just a permanent reminder of a temporary feeling.
Chromosomes and genes,
spawn these fateful scenes.
Evolution can be mean,
there's no dumbass vaccine.
Blame your DNA.
You're a victim of your fate.
It's human nature, to miscalculate.
To make up for the fight,
they go out for the night,
sex; drugs and rock n roll seem like the easiest answer.
but a short nine months later
there's no way of concealing
that permanent reminder of a temporary feeling!
Permanent reminder
of a temporary feeling,
amnesiac episodes that never go away.
It's no complex momemto, it's not set of revealing.
Just a permanent reminder of a temporary feeling.
permanent reminder of a temporary feeling
permanent reminder of a temporary feeling
To answer your question I offer Jimmy Buffet's Permanent Reminder of a Temporary Feeling form the album Beachhouse On The Moon.
She was no Marine back from the Philippines
she was their pride and joy, their incarnation.
Her parents viewed the chief with shock and disbelief
looking for some other explanation.
....
Permanent reminder
of a temporary feeling,
amnesiac episodes that never go away.
It's no complex momemto, it's not set of revealing.
Just a permanent reminder of a temporary feeling.
permanent reminder of a temporary feeling
permanent reminder of a temporary feeling
Love it, Mister B is always good for a quote..
Blitzzz (RIP)
01-29-2009, 06:29
It just seemed the thing to do since everyone of my family had already obtained a couple. It was either the one I got or all my "201" on my chest. I had too many years active duty with a constant influence not to put ID markers on my body. I guess I out grew it. Blitzz
Soft Target
01-29-2009, 07:55
Had a very young troop show up for jump school with wings on his forearm and an attitude to go with it. Lasted two days.
Dozer523
01-29-2009, 08:04
Had a very young troop show up for jump school with wings on his forearm and an attitude to go with it. Lasted two days. Too bad you couldn't scrub it off with lye before you sent him packing!
alright4u
01-29-2009, 15:47
I think it is a bad idea.
You will be permanently marked as an American and a Marine, in a fairly obvious place.
Hardly fits in with the concept of being a QP, IMHO.
Plenty of time to tat up and brag after you retire.
TR
Good reply. We had a 1LT in 67 with a green beret complete with dagger body ink job on his right outter wrist. The Group CO told him to see the surgeons and have it removed or he was history. Why would a man want to mark his body with any US military logo if he is going into combat? You are putting an indelible mark on yourself that cannot be denied if captured. You are also risking the men with you.
Dozer523
01-29-2009, 16:00
Why would a man want to mark his body with any US military logo if he is going into combat? You are putting an indelible mark on yourself that cannot be denied if captured.
Well, maybe he wanted to be a lampshade.:eek:
I heard or read somewhere that at one of the Nazi Death Camps prisoners with body art were singled out for immediate extermination. (I probably ought to scopes that one.)
Well, maybe he wanted to be a lamBshade.:eek:
Clarice: If you didn't kill him, then who did, sir?
Lecter: Who can say? Best thing for him, really. His therapy was going nowhere.
~ "Silence of the Lambs"
alright4u
01-29-2009, 16:50
ROFLMAO.
I was sitting in the Greater Cincinnati International Airport years ago with my daughter, then 5 years old. I had bought her a set of markers and some paper for the trip to Dallas. As we waited she began to write her name on all her belongings. When that was done she bagan to write her name on each leg, her arms, hands, etc. I was just watching and shaking my head.
A woman next to me had an obvious look of contempt on her face as it was clear she thought I was a poor excuse for a dad who would let his kid write all over herself like that.
Finally this woman had had enough and asked if I going to stop the child.
I said, "No, not at all. I always have her label her body parts when we fly."
That ended the conversation right then and there.
As for tats, not for me. They make no practical or tactical sense.
But there is something about a tramp stamp peeking over a pair of cut-offs ......
Section-8
01-30-2009, 13:39
I was sitting in the Greater Cincinnati International Airport years ago with my daughter, then 5 years old. I had bought her a set of markers and some paper for the trip to Dallas. As we waited she began to write her name on all her belongings. When that was done she bagan to write her name on each leg, her arms, hands, etc. I was just watching and shaking my head.
A woman next to me had an obvious look of contempt on her face as it was clear she thought I was a poor excuse for a dad who would let his kid write all over herself like that.
Finally this woman had had enough and asked if I going to stop the child.
I said, "No, not at all. I always have her label her body parts when we fly."
That ended the conversation right then and there.
As for tats, not for me. They make no practical or tactical sense.
But there is something about a tramp stamp peeking over a pair of cut-offs ......
I have never heard that one before, (LMAO)...Traveling through an airport will never be the same now. Every kid i see writing on something or themselves will remind me of this..... (LOL).....
I was sitting in the Greater Cincinnati International Airport years ago with my daughter, then 5 years old. I had bought her a set of markers and some paper for the trip to Dallas. As we waited she began to write her name on all her belongings. When that was done she bagan to write her name on each leg, her arms, hands, etc. I was just watching and shaking my head.
A woman next to me had an obvious look of contempt on her face as it was clear she thought I was a poor excuse for a dad who would let his kid write all over herself like that.
Finally this woman had had enough and asked if I going to stop the child.
I said, "No, not at all. I always have her label her body parts when we fly."
That ended the conversation right then and there.
As for tats, not for me. They make no practical or tactical sense.
But there is something about a tramp stamp peeking over a pair of cut-offs ......
LOL I love It, I got my Tat, no wider then 3 fingers, of a German eagle, after approval of my CO., and a lecture, it was something important to me, in memory of my grandfather. It is high on the right arm, short sleeves do not even show it or T-shirt.
Expatriate
03-10-2009, 07:09
Well, maybe he wanted to be a lampshade.:eek:
I heard or read somewhere that at one of the Nazi Death Camps prisoners with body art were singled out for immediate extermination. (I probably ought to scopes that one.)
A particuarly nasty example of this was one female prison guard at Auschwitz (Maybe Birkenau, can't remember off the top of my head), who had her entire room decorated in pieces of furniture made from tatooed skin - theres a picture somewhere out there of a lampshade with clearly indentifiable nipples...
Part of my current history course is the Nazi state - recently looking at concentration camps, hence this particular horror story.
(Off topic I know, but an interesting tangent, if in a macabre way)
Tattoos were also frowned upon in my time in Group. A number of the older airborne vets had tattoos left over from their time in the various regiments, but tattoos were seen as indelibly identifiable marks and assignment limiting.
FWIW - tattoos, piercings, and the like are considered to be socially lower class amongst our family - whether anyone else thinks they are or not. Be that as it may, our middle son, who is really attuned to our Scots heritage, had our family shield (Clan Hay) placed on his left bicep. He worried about my reaction and was surprised when I told him why I didn't think it was a great idea (marking, > incidence of latent hep-C, views of others, etc) but that it was his problem, not mine, and he was the one who had to live with it. I was not thrilled that he had done that, but he's over 18 and it could have been worse...it could have been a globe and anchor or the like. :D
MOO...and not tattooed. ;)
Richard's $.02 :munchin
PS - as far as the Nazis and tattoo souvenirs - Expat was thinking of Ilse Koch, the commandant's wife at Buchenwald near Weimar (Bitch of Buchenwald) who was convicted in the post-war trials. Even by the accepted standards of those incomprehensible camps, Buchenwald was seen amongst the RFSS and WVHA-Amt D staffs as being OOC and the practice of such souvenirs was not encouraged.
There is no upside to a tattoo - execpt in the mind of the owner. Once you have one - it is done, the second one won't be far behind. Then the third...
The Downside is enormous - just think of all the forms you have had to fill out where you checked the No box for Tattoos – that would be over.
Back in the70s I was a member of a unit that would not take you if you had a tattoo – this unit happened to be the best unit that ever existed (IMHO). Who’s to say that units like that one won’t come back again someday – why would you want to disqualify yourself from such an opportunity.
greenberetTFS
03-15-2009, 16:13
There is no upside to a tattoo - execpt in the mind of the owner. Once you have one - it is done, the second one won't be far behind. Then the third...
The Downside is enormous - just think of all the forms you have had to fill out where you checked the No box for Tattoos – that would be over.
Back in the70s I was a member of a unit that would not take you if you had a tattoo – this unit happened to be the best unit that ever existed (IMHO). Who’s to say that units like that one won’t come back again someday – why would you want to disqualify yourself from such an opportunity.
Mitch is absolutely right.....:( and as Richard said the older guys from the airborne units had tattoos.:( After jump school and 17 years old, I went out and got 2 of them. The "In God we trust" with a paratrooper and chute with "Hells Angels" under it. The other arm with "True Love" a rose with Maggies name in it. Well,all I can say is "Stupid is as stupid does". I've regretted it all my life, because when I worked in an office, I had to wear long sleeve shirts in the heat of summer because my boss didn't want the customers to see them..........Don't get one.........:mad:
GB TFS :munchin
To quote Miss Mona in Best Little Whorehouse in Texas "Brands are made for cattle and that ain't what we're sellin' at Miss Mona's."
When I was personnel officer for a local Sheriff's Office, subconsciously I would deselect candidates with ink in favor of those that were ink-less, all other things being equal. My shrink at my department backed me up by stating a professional opinion that body modification indicated a deep seated insecurity in one's body image and therefore an indicator of poor self discipline. He had the same opinion of piercings that were excessive or visible.
My shrink at my department backed me up by stating a professional opinion that body modification indicated a deep seated insecurity in one's body image and therefore an indicator of poor self discipline. He had the same opinion of piercings that were excessive or visible.
I pretty much agree with that idea, but personally, my family always looked at tattooing, piercing, and other forms of body art as something practiced among less advanced societies like those we saw in the monthly National Geographic Magazine while growing up.
In the military, many of the guys I saw get tattoos were doing it while intoxicated and/or on a bet with friends...a sort of group think mentality which usually went something along the lines of "Hey...let's do such and such!"...followed shortly thereafter by a "Oh, man! What were we thinking!"
But such is youth.
Richard's $.02 :munchin
dirt_diver
03-18-2009, 00:06
A particuarly nasty example of this was one female prison guard at Auschwitz (Maybe Birkenau, can't remember off the top of my head), who had her entire room decorated in pieces of furniture made from tatooed skin - theres a picture somewhere out there of a lampshade with clearly indentifiable nipples...
Part of my current history course is the Nazi state - recently looking at concentration camps, hence this particular horror story.
(Off topic I know, but an interesting tangent, if in a macabre way)
Expatriate,
I believe it was Buchenwald. I remember seeing some of those pieces of flesh art on a tour back in '03. The commandant's wife would select prisoners to die so she could have lamp shades with tattoos.
Dozer523
03-18-2009, 08:30
In the military, many of the guys I saw get tattoos were doing it while intoxicated and/or on a bet with friends...a sort of group think mentality which usually went something along the lines of "Hey...let's do such and such!"...followed shortly thereafter by a "Oh, man! What were we thinking!"But such is youth.
Richard's $.02 :munchin
Back in my foggy years, tattoo parlors were off limits in Germany, and violating the Off Limits Order was an instant Field Grade Article 15. There was a soldier who (rumored) had a tattoo of a spider etched near his fly. He tried to get out of PT claiming a pulled groin muscle. PSG told him to fall out for Sick Call but reminded him doctor-patient confidentiality did not apply in the Aid Station. said Youth ran the whole 5 miles that warm, humid morning. (ouch) I don't think the hang-over helped.
simple man
11-08-2010, 18:22
I was sitting in the Greater Cincinnati International Airport years ago with my daughter, then 5 years old. I had bought her a set of markers and some paper for the trip to Dallas. As we waited she began to write her name on all her belongings. When that was done she bagan to write her name on each leg, her arms, hands, etc. I was just watching and shaking my head.
A woman next to me had an obvious look of contempt on her face as it was clear she thought I was a poor excuse for a dad who would let his kid write all over herself like that.
Finally this woman had had enough and asked if I going to stop the child.
I said, "No, not at all. I always have her label her body parts when we fly."
That ended the conversation right then and there.
As for tats, not for me. They make no practical or tactical sense.
But there is something about a tramp stamp peeking over a pair of cut-offs ......
I just laughed out loud. Well said.
Given the risk of being easily identified, I always wondered if SF/SOF personnel ever got tattoos that displayed their profession while on active duty.
I have met more than a couple AD SEALs that have Tridents on themselves in obvious spots. One on his forearm, one on the back of his neck, one on the leg. Several other AD Team guys that have other SEAL specific insignia on themselves. Always kind of wondered why they would do that...
I had a tattoo on my left shoulder, got it while in training group. A year later I had it removed . The reason, It had english writing and tagged me as an American.
As an aside, while in Viet Nam, we had a young Sergeant join us who had "kill viet cong" tattooed, in Vietnameese, on his fore arm. Took him about two days assigned to an actual fighting A-team to see the Bac Si and get that mess removed. Guess he figured out the the VC killed back.
Body ink while on active duty with the Groups is a liability to you and your teammates, lose it. Last paragraph is my humble opinion based on personal experience.
Body ink while on active duty with the Groups is a liability to you and your teammates, lose it. Last paragraph is my humble opinion based on personal experience.
My godfather had a tattoo done on his forearm back in the 60's (so smudged one cant even tell what it is), He said that exact thing.Also, if he would've gotten sick from the process of getting the tattoo he would've been in trouble.
For the record he wasnt SF,but a DI in virginia.
"Watch iss! Hold my colebeer while I...
a. get this tat!"
b. get this earring in my nipple!"
c. chug this bottle of Everclear!"
69harley
01-21-2011, 08:40
I understand many of the posters here are more senior and from a different generation, but take a look around the group areas. Many, lots of team members are wearing full sleeves, some have chest and backs done. In most of the CIFs it is rare to see a guy that is not tatted up.
I understand many of the posters here are more senior and from a different generation, but take a look around the group areas. Many, lots of team members are wearing full sleeves, some have chest and backs done. In most of the CIFs it is rare to see a guy that is not tatted up.
Yeah, I would say that over 80% of group is tatted up now days. I have mine. Though I will say that percentage goes way way down if you are looking for military related tattoos. I would suggest and advice against military related tattoos till after you retire.
I understand many of the posters here are more senior and from a different generation, but take a look around the group areas. Many, lots of team members are wearing full sleeves, some have chest and backs done. In most of the CIFs it is rare to see a guy that is not tatted up.
I appreciate your tact.
It's a paradigm shift or evolutionary process I liken to the allowance of openly homo soldiers.
Don't worry, we FOG's gotta slide away at some point; although I'm working on a scheme in which my brain is transplanted into a clone of Pierce Brosnan's body @ 26 years of age.
Don't worry, we FOG's gotta slide away at some point; although I'm working on a scheme in which my brain is transplanted into a clone of Pierce Brosnan's body @ 26 years of age.
IRMV :eek::eek:
IRMV :eek::eek:
Yeah, they're already working wonders with the chia transplants.
I am actually in the process of having one removed before I go to SFAS. I have numerous but this particular one is something that makes me stick out. I do not want to risk my chances at being selected over that.
Flame Magnet
04-28-2011, 15:16
Seeing as how I haven't made it to a group yet or even started the Q, I can't speak on that aspect. But one of the cadre at selection told me because my tattoos can been seen in a suit, I probably wouldn't get to do some missions, especially ones revolving around an embassy. But when I got back, I was told by a long tabbed MSG from 5th Group that it all depends on the situations.
Seeing as how I haven't made it to a group yet or even started the Q, I can't speak on that aspect. But one of the cadre at selection told me because my tattoos can been seen in a suit, I probably wouldn't get to do some missions, especially ones revolving around an embassy. But when I got back, I was told by a long tabbed MSG from 5th Group that it all depends on the situations.
Read what you typed real slow - it ended up with "it all depends".
In most cases might not make a difference. In some it might - "it all depends".
Me? I want the best chance at doing everything I try for. I'd hate to be told "We'd like to take you but........"
If you're happy with it - so be it.
Surgicalcric
04-28-2011, 15:29
...But when I got back, I was told by a long tabbed MSG from 5th Group that it all depends on the situations.
Having tattoos which can be seen while wearing business/business casual clothing WILL have an adverse effect on your getting selected for certain assignments.
Crip
Flame Magnet
04-28-2011, 15:33
Read what you typed real slow - it ended up with "it all depends".
In most cases might not make a difference. In some it might - "it all depends".
Me? I want the best chance at doing everything I try for. I'd hate to be told "We'd like to take you but........"
If you're happy with it - so be it.
I would hate to be told something like that...I'm just going to go to the "Q" course give a 110% and we will see from there. I already had a tattoo removed and it hurt more than the tattoo and looks worse than when the tattoo was there.
tom kelly
04-28-2011, 16:08
If the U S ARMY Special Forces wanted you to have a tatoo, You would get a tatoo in leiu of the Yarborough Knife....Regard's, tom kelly
Team Sergeant
04-28-2011, 16:35
Some of us make good life choices and some bad. Some you have to live with, some you can change. It's all about choices.
I think I'll go and get my "first" tat now......I'm thinking something SF.. maybe a SF Crest? :D
Peregrino
04-28-2011, 19:19
FWIW - SF is changing (again :rolleyes:). Within 3-5 years I expect door kicking (a very simple mission set that doesn't require much tact, discretion, or low profile attitudes) to be out of style. So get whatever tats you want (don't forget to concentrate on learning 9mm, 5.56, and 7.62 - no need to study pesky, headache inducing, CAT IV languages). MOO - Tats make it a lot easier to screen candidates for interesting missions. (Interesting is a VERY imprecise parameter! :cool:)
The Reaper
04-28-2011, 20:38
I would hate to be told something like that...I'm just going to go to the "Q" course give a 110% and we will see from there. I already had a tattoo removed and it hurt more than the tattoo and looks worse than when the tattoo was there.
Yeah, but it looked so COOL when you got it!:rolleyes:
Agreed that life is about decisions, and that they have consequences.
TR
FWIW - SF is changing (again :rolleyes:). Within 3-5 years I expect door kicking (a very simple mission set that doesn't require much tact, discretion, or low profile attitudes) to be out of style.
Why do you think this? Do you mean it will be out of style in general, or specifically in Special Forces? I ask this as a genuine question, not a challenge to your opinion.
Why do you think this? Do you mean it will be out of style in general, or specifically in Special Forces? I ask this as a genuine question, not a challenge to your opinion.
Door kickers can be trained in a lot less time than two years.
Door kickers can be trained in a lot less time than two years.
Do you feel that is true for training guys to kick doors with the same ability as a DA-specific unit? For example, would you feel better with a certain famous Army CT Unit kicking down doors in search of a HVT, or a platoon of 19 year olds that are a year into the Army? Do you feel the skill level at door-kicking maintained by SOF is a crucial skill that does take two years or more of training and experience? Again, asking questions, not making challenges or somehow implying that you are wrong.
.......... Again, asking questions, not making challenges or somehow implying that you are wrong.
Again, if all you want to do is kick doors it don't take two years of training.
Language? All you need to speak is 5.56, 9mm and have a working knowledge of 7.62.
Surgicalcric
04-29-2011, 17:49
Do you feel that is true for training guys to kick doors with the same ability as a DA-specific unit? For example, would you feel better with a certain famous Army CT Unit kicking down doors in search of a HVT, or a platoon of 19 year olds that are a year into the Army? Do you feel the skill level at door-kicking maintained by SOF is a crucial skill that does take two years or more of training and experience? Again, asking questions, not making challenges or somehow implying that you are wrong.
SF is getting back to its roots is what Peregrino was getting at. Door kicking, as seen in 4:00 youtube clips, isn't it.
Dont get us wrong, door kicking has its place but there are specific units which focus on that set of skills. And it isn't those skills which sets SF apart from the other Special Operations Forces (Ranger Regiment, SEALs, certain other DA centric units, etc.)
As for skill levels, dont be obtuse. Of course there is no comparison in the two you mention. However, there are selection processes out there for guys whose focus and drive is to kick doors; SFAS isnt it.
If you still need clarification feel free to use the search button. The differences in SOF and SF have been discussed here a time or twenty.
Crip
SF is getting back to its roots is what Peregrino was getting at. Door kicking, as seen in 4:00 youtube clips, isn't it.
Dont get us wrong, door kicking has its place but there are specific units which focus on that set of skills. And it isn't those skills which sets SF apart from the other Special Operations Forces (Ranger Regiment, SEALs, certain other DA centric units, etc.)
As for skill levels, dont be obtuse. Of course there is no comparison in the two you mention. However, there are selection processes out there for guys whose focus and drive is to kick doors; SFAS isnt it.
If you still need clarification feel free to use the search button. The differences in SOF and SF have been discussed here a time or twenty.
Crip
Understood. Apologies for the poor analogy. You're right (obviously), it was a dumbass move on my part to use those two examples. Thank you to yourself and Pete for the information.
Understood. Apologies for the poor analogy. You're right (obviously), it was a dumbass move on my part to use those two examples. Thank you to yourself and Pete for the information.
Back when I was the Sr Engineer on a Team I would get a new Jr Engineer every now and again. The first thing I would ask him was "Are you a Demo Man or an Engineer?" - "I'm a Demo Man. Why?" - "Well, an Engineer can do everything a Demo Man can plus a whole lot more. I don't need a Demo Man, but I can use an Engineer."
Back when I was the Sr Engineer on a Team I would get a new Jr Engineer every now and again. The first thing I would ask him was "Are you a Demo Man or an Engineer?" - "I'm a Demo Man. Why?" - "Well, an Engineer can do everything a Demo Man can plus a whole lot more. I don't need a Demo Man, but I can use an Engineer."
Point taken. Yet another example of why I want to be SF.
FWIW - SF is changing (again :rolleyes:). Within 3-5 years I expect door kicking (a very simple mission set that doesn't require much tact, discretion, or low profile attitudes) to be out of style. So get whatever tats you want (don't forget to concentrate on learning 9mm, 5.56, and 7.62 - no need to study pesky, headache inducing, CAT IV languages). MOO - Tats make it a lot easier to screen candidates for interesting missions. (Interesting is a VERY imprecise parameter! :cool:)
ROFLMAO.....
still have memories of the Ex's retort to COL T's infamous speech to the FRG (we don't need language training, we speak 5.56 and 7.62), "if that's true, why did you go away for 12 weeks of Language Training???"
Back when I was the Sr Engineer on a Team I would get a new Jr Engineer every now and again. The first thing I would ask him was "Are you a Demo Man or an Engineer?" - "I'm a Demo Man. Why?" - "Well, an Engineer can do everything a Demo Man can plus a whole lot more. I don't need a Demo Man, but I can use an Engineer."
Exactly. Back when (pre-H TO&E circa 1970), the JrEngr slot was labeled Demo Specialist - they wore specialist rank (e.g., SP5 vs SGT) and were authorized demolition pay because of the way they were slotted. It was changed to reflect the thinking Pete articulated in his post.
And so it goes...
Richard :munchin
MTN Medic
04-30-2011, 16:55
Roughly 50% of the guys on my team have tattoos. This seems fairly consistent group-wide. Will things change? Definitely. Group have changed in just the last coupe years; no telling where we'll be in 10.
I could care less if a guy does have a tattoo but if it is military affiliated, you have to ask yourself what would happen if you were doing some secret squirrel stuff and got caught. Think not only what would happen to you, but also your teammates.
Are not going to be non-selected over it? Extremely unlikely.
Ironmike
05-05-2011, 04:16
Tats are a form of identification, on a sterile mission they would be difficult to leave behind. I am still camera shy and have had all of my dental identifiers removed. But really not for a covert mission.
MTN Medic
05-24-2011, 20:19
Tats are a form of identification, on a sterile mission they would be difficult to leave behind. I am still camera shy and have had all of my dental identifiers removed. But really not for a covert mission.
Really? :rolleyes:
I am still camera shy and have had all of my dental identifiers removed.
What, you named your teeth?
....a platoon of 19 year olds that are a year into the Army?
As for door-kicking, a platoon of 19 years did a very good job in France, Italy and Germany with MIA1's, leather boots and battle worn uniforms.
Did not see it coming, but situational awareness and a salty platoon sergeant with the understanding that movement to contact is in direct proportion to terrain be it, open fields or living rooms in country cottages or small euro apartments.
If the U S ARMY Special Forces wanted you to have a tatoo, You would get a tatoo in leiu of the Yarborough Knife....Regard's, tom kelly
Anyone can get a tatoo, but only a select few will ever earn "the" Yarborough Kinfe.
Congrats to every single one who has!:lifter
cant hardly
10-16-2011, 20:55
.
When I went to EOD school a senior chief told us that EOD did not wear identifying insignia downrange. He also told us that if we should demonstrate such poor judgement as to get an EOD tat we could be certain of two things: we would be dragged down to the plastic surgeon to have it peeled off and we would be terminated from the EOD program.
Personally, I rotate the artwork hanging on my walls a couple of times a year. I can't imagine having artwork that I can't change, put away, or discard as my tastes change.
... a senior chief told us that EOD did not wear identifying insignia downrange....
:rolleyes:
Surgicalcric
10-18-2011, 08:35
When I went to EOD school a senior chief told us that EOD did not wear identifying insignia downrange...
He obviously meant anything other than the big velcro patch on both shoulders that says, EOD. :rolleyes:
What can I say? I'm an old fart and my active duty time was in the 70's.
Back then the NATO standard was to paint the area around all four wheels a lovely red - which was a real pain to cover up when we went tactical! Go figure!
pjbluetogreen
03-28-2012, 14:30
Personally, I rotate the artwork hanging on my walls a couple of times a year. I can't imagine having artwork that I can't change, put away, or discard as my tastes change.
You can do the same with tats, its just a more painful process.
Back when I was the Sr Engineer on a Team I would get a new Jr Engineer every now and again. The first thing I would ask him was "Are you a Demo Man or an Engineer?" - "I'm a Demo Man. Why?" - "Well, an Engineer can do everything a Demo Man can plus a whole lot more. I don't need a Demo Man, but I can use an Engineer."
Great statement Pete!
Ok.. I'm on ODA right now and myself, Medic & my Tm SGt are the only ones not to have Tats. My CPT got selected with a arm band and now has his upper sleeves done on both arms. My Sr "Demo man" :D came to the team with his torso 80% covered & he has arm sleeves. My Bravo's, both have couple body tats & full sleeves that don't show while in ACU or MC. Both got selected with their tats. Jr Eng has two tats. Sr Commo has a few.
I never got a tattoo because of my father, who is a WWII vet and he has a globe and eagle on his arm and anchor on his left thigh. Once he was in his fifties you cannot tell what they were. I understand that the ink back then and the techniques are nothing they are today.
Around here at Fort Bragg there are 2 tatoo shops own by SF guys.
Like I have told guys before and what Peregrino is saying; if you want to do something special, or go work for other people and other special places. DO NOT GET A TATTOO. YOUR LIFE, THE PEOPLE THAT YOU WORK WITH AND FOR; WILL ALL BE MARK JUST LIKE YOUR BODY IS. ONCE AGAIN, DO NOT GET A TATTOO.
The new thing in SF is tattoos.. SF is a reflection of the Army and that's where we come from. Tatoos has gotten a lot more acceptable in the Army.
blue02hd
03-28-2012, 18:07
Mtngoat,,,,,
Have you been drinking?
I have met more than a couple AD SEALs that have Tridents on themselves in obvious spots. One on his forearm, one on the back of his neck, one on the leg. Several other AD Team guys that have other SEAL specific insignia on themselves. Always kind of wondered why they would do that...
Ever heard about kiss and tell? :cool:
Adam1680
08-13-2012, 22:41
Designs are one thing. Insignia/ identifiers/ religious/ family names are just plain not smart. You minus well put your 201 file on your back window while you're at it.
Divemaster
08-23-2012, 07:24
I have zero tats, but that is a personal choice. I knew a fully qualified Tier 1 guy who got there with jump wings on his arm. That blows the "identifying" ink rumor out of the water.
For anyone worrying about being captured with identifying ink, I suspect there is a 99.9% chance of you not being captured. But if you are, I suspect there is a 99.9% chance of you being captured in uniform. And if you are captured on a badass behind the lines commando mission I bet there is a 99.9% chance your ink will not be the deciding factor in your treatment by the host nation.
Unapologetic Soldier
08-23-2012, 07:52
I don't have any tatoo's myself but went to selection with guys who had full sleevs and they got selected.
I'm retired, so security is immaterial in my case.
I splurged on a $700. tat of Rambo yelling "They're all dead, Sir!!!" on a PRC 77 across my rock-hard left pec. :rolleyes:
Dozer523
08-23-2012, 10:10
$700. tat of Rambo yelling "They're all dead, Sir!!!" on a PRC 77 across my rock-hard left pec. That's IT! I'm buyin' in Osage Beach!!! I wanna see that!:D
That's IT! I'm buyin' in Osage Beach!!! I wanna see that!:D
I'll pass. You'll just post something like, "You gotta see Dusty's man-tit!" :D
Dozer523
08-23-2012, 10:39
I'll pass. You'll just post something like, "You gotta see Dusty's man-tit!" :D Drat! Foiled again! (I'm blaming Obama!)
Guymullins
08-23-2012, 10:50
Maybe I dont understand the inter-sevice rivalry in America, but the first question this fellow would be asked where I come from is: Why would you want to put a Little League logo on when your aim is to play for the Major League?
I splurged on a $700. tat of Rambo yelling "They're all dead, Sir!!!" on a PRC 77 across my rock-hard left pec. :rolleyes:
Shoulda gone to Angie's List - you could've gotten a coupon and had it done for $19.95 and gotten a ShamWow to wash it off when it got dusty! :D
Richard :munchin
convallion
08-23-2012, 11:43
Are we really bashing tattoos on here now? I have seen more guys tatted up since I have been at group than any other point in my life. Make your own decisions 18A wannabe, your a grown man if you want a tat get one. I have tats and no one has ever said anything.
Team Sergeant
08-23-2012, 12:14
Are we really bashing tattoos on here now? I have seen more guys tatted up since I have been at group than any other point in my life. Make your own decisions 18A wannabe, your a grown man if you want a tat get one. I have tats and no one has ever said anything.
Unlike all other military units Special Forces soldiers are deployed throughout the spectrum of conflict in peacetime and war conducting overt, covert and clandestine missions in permissible, semi-permissible and denied environments.
You want to tat up and look like Billy Bad Ass that's fine and dandy, just forget the covert and clandestine missions. You'll do just fine on the conventional battlefield.
The unconventional battlefield is global and SF soldiers can and will strike anywhere.
blue02hd
08-23-2012, 17:59
AAAANNNNDDD THATS why he's the Team Sergeant!