Tattoo making has been known to man since time immortal. In ancient times, it was made as a form of art. Today, however, tattoos are used as a form of self-expression or to make a fashion statement. More often than not, people don tattoos to symbolize the meaning associated with it. Nearly all the tattoo designs are symbolic and have some meaning associated with them. Military tattoos are one such tattoo design which have great symbolic meaning. They have been sported by people since early times.
History of Military Tattoos
One may have heard of Otzi, the iceman, found in the Alps who is believed to be from the stone age. His body is nearly 5000 years old and also the oldest known human skin available today. The interesting fact of it is that the body of Otzi was tattooed in several places. Hence, from this observation, it was inferred that tattoo making was known to man since ancient times. Secondly, there have been a few references which indicate that the English soldiers colored their bodies in some form of color during Julius Caesar's reign. This is also believed to be a form of tattoo. In more recent years, tattoos was made by soldiers who served in the first or the second World War as a memory of it. Even today, these tattoos are mostly made by veterans all over the world.
Meanings
The most important significance of these tattoos is patriotism. It also symbolizes nationalism and national fervor. Military tattoo designs are usually made by people to keep alive their military spirit even after the end of their service. Sometimes, these tattoos are also made by people to form a permanent memorial of any particular operation in which they had participated. On the other hand, sometimes tattoos are made as a memory of loved ones that perished in the war. Most of the time, it is observed that according to the rules and regulations of the military, those in active service may not be permitted to sport a tattoo. Therefore, tattoo designs are seen by ex-servicemen.
Designs
All the divisions of the armed forces, like the army, the navy and the air force have their own symbols, which can be used to make tattoos designs. Therefore, we commonly come across the typical symbols of the navy, army and the air force in military tattoos. On the other hand, other signs and symbols like the star, bald eagle or the anchor are also used. Sometimes, in order to personalize it, people engrave the name of their operation, the year and time, etc. with the tattoo. Writing names or initials is also a common practice. Cool designs include dog tag, fighter plane, sword, lion, American eagle, etc. Tattoos depicting flags of your own country engraved in different styles and patterns are also popular military tattoo designs. Sometimes, religious symbols like the Holy Cross are also fused into military designs and tattooed on the body. Although these tattoos are usually sported by men, you may also find quite a few designs for girls. This tattoo can be made in any color and pattern and will surely attract attention. Also, it is usually made on the most visible part of the body like the upper arm.
Mostly, these tattoos are made by people who are proud to be a part of military and wish to keep alive a memory of their active participation in it. But, even if you are not into service, you can definitely go for military tattoos to portray your love and pride for your country.
