The symbols we adorn ourselves with

While the Lt. General was here, one Marine made a gripe in the form of a question about the Marine Corps’ new policy concerning tattoos: Marines cannot get any new tattoos that are visible while wearing PT gear. This pretty much bans tattoos on the lower arms and legs. While the wording of the policy seems expansive and restrictive, I am told there are a number of exceptions to include a caveat that you can have tattoos in those areas so long as they don’t cover a certain percentage or portion of the extremity. This basically means they are outlawing ‘sleeve’ style tattoos which cover large swaths of the extremity. The interesting part though was how the General approached the topic in general. He didn’t discuss the nitty gritty of the policy rather he discussed the philosophy behind why the Corps was interested in banning something which seems so quintessentially military. His reasoning was that Marines should not seek to adorn their bodies with symbols unbecoming a Marine. He continued saying that as a Marine there is only a few symbols which all Marines have on at all times, one being the Eagle Globe and Anchor symbol on the uniform. Having excessive tattoos would take away from that simple symbol which defines each of us as one of the few and proud. He further spoke of professionalism and how we should look professional in our uniform and tattoos might distract from this professionalism. His comments and style reminded me of my mission president who warned the missionaries against wearing loud and busy ties because they could distract our contacts and investigators from the message and the spirit we bore. How interesting that this General would have such deep insight about the way outward symbols may define who we are. I am reminded of many symbols people wear and how these symbols define them. For example, Jews are circumcised as a symbol of covenants made with God. Additionally, they wear special headgear and clothing to symbolize their faith and their relationship to God. I also wear LDS Temple garments which do the same and similar things as Jews. The symbols that define us are worth pondering.