Why are tattoo regulations so strict? Do they hinder your ability to fire a weapon?

Who cares what the civilian populace thinks! As a Marine who has both fought in war and done numerous T4T events I've never seen tattoos hinder performance in either arena. The problem is we have general officers who care more about promotion, political correctness and public opinion than they do about standing up for their troops. We promote our brand through our professionalism both on and off the field of battle and will continue to do so with or without tattoos. To make any argument contrary to that statement is both invalid and asinine. We're taught to never judge a book by its cover unless it's to judge a member of the military! Let's pop the brown star cluster and call bullshit on this flawed line of thinking.

SSgt Scott Reynolds - We should for a variety of reasons.

First among them is that we recruit directly from the civilian populace. Specifically from "impressionable youth" and we specifically target those in the 18 year old bracket. Those who are (still) HIGHLY INFLUENCED by their parents, and more than likely not to have served. A parent who sees something they view as "scary" or "not-professional" is not going to "buy in" on endorsing the Brand, and will "actively discourage" a life decision like joining the military. Since we use the Delayed Entry Program as our primary means of entry into the service, and a solid portion make the decision to join pre-18, this requires a parental signature to join.

Second is that our funding comes from Congress, who is made up of Civilians (though there are a "few" Reserve Officers, Retirees, and Veterans). Furthermore, it comes directly from the American Taxpayer, who again is predominantly Civilian. They write the check, they make the call.

Tatts don't make one tougher... It's what's in the man, not what's on the man.

Maj Werner Hindrichs - Are you having a stroke or are you just that misinformed? That symbol for scout snipers has been around long before the guys that you mentioned. Maybe if you weren't in the Air Force you'd actually have a clue as to what you're talking about. Additionally, I don't have to be tight lipped about my criticism of field grade and general officers, because the only way many of them attain those ranks is from being politically correct "yes" men, your delusional to think anything contrary to that. For an officer I'd expect more than some ad hominem attacks on my character. Maybe you should make a valid argument that has some substance and then get back to me, or you can just continue to make personal attacks against me.

I agree completely. I have 2 small tatts on either bicep and that is fine for me. I could give damn if you got your johnson tattooed as long as you do your job but the plain facts are that image is perception.

Most Marines are the " delinquent element" at least the guys I would trust to have my back in a fire fight.