Like tattoos with spiritual and religious symbolism, military tattoos often have a strong element of the amulet or talisman connected to them. Protection in battle was often a specific requirement of tattoos acquired in many cultures and the tattoo was accompanied with rituals, incantations, and pigment which was believed to have special or magical properties. Tattooing was carried out by Shamans, medicine men, priests and other individuals who were known to have access to special powers. These properties might render an individual invisible or impervious to the weapons of opponents. A tattoo in this instance was meant to act as a shield and a final line of personal defense. This is still a belief in places like Burma, Thailand and other areas.
Members of the US ARMY frequently choose eagle icons to express their love of freedom. The flag has always been popular, also replicas of unit patches or medals often combined with the stars and stripes, which many soldiers take for a lifetime 'lest they forget'. Indeed, many of these tattoos memorialize buddies who became POWs or MIAs. The 'meat tag' tattoo is a permanent version of the dog tag, and is often inked prior to deployment to wars or overseas missions.
Below you will find a gallery of inspirational images that will help you in your quest of creating the perfect military tattoo.
Also Check out: Memorial Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Heart Tattoos, Battlefield Cross, Eagle tattoo designs.
