Tattoo?

napxc16

5-Year Member
Joined
Jan 25, 2012
Messages
25
Having already signed my appointment and anxiously awaiting I-Day, I had a quick question that I was curious about.

On the actual appointment papers, it asks if you have a preexisting tattoo and for a photo of one, if any. I did not have one at the time I signed the papers accepting the appointment.

Having already signed the papers saying I DIDNT have a tattoo, and abiding by USNA rules of incoming plebes, would I potentially be able to get a tattoo prior to I-Day without any major consequences?

Obviously no tattoo is the better answer in this situation, but I was just wondering to if this was at all possible before heading over to Navy.

Note-- The tattoo would be very small and most likely on the top or bottom of my foot.

Thanks
 
My question is: Why do you feel the need to get a tattoo now? Is it just to say you have one, or is it something that is so important that you can't wait? Based on the comment of the current Dean of Admissions and repeated by a current Admissions Counselor USNA will not tolerate tattoos that are visible when you are wearing a uniform, and they note that a bathing suit is considered a uniform. Ages ago in the days of wooden hulls and steam propulsion we were briefed as plebes not to think about getting a tattoo - period. At that time they felt it not becoming of an officer, and were concerned that it could be a clue to one's identity. The word is that last summer a prospective member of USNA 2016 was sent home because she would not agree to have a tattoo removed. I agree with tpg - focus on something more important and skip the tattoos before going to USNA.
 
Understand the OP isn't asking our advice re getting a tattoo but, seriously, with all that you need and want to do b/t now and I-Day, I'm not sure why getting a tattoo is high on your list, or even on your list.:rolleyes:

If you choose to do it, I would contact USNA ahead of time -- your RD I suppose or maybe the medical folks -- and ensure that what you're planning is OK. And what you need to submit to USNA, which is probably a picture of it.

Finally, if you're determined to do it, do it now so that, if you have unexpected complications (i.e., infection), you hopefully will have it resolved before I-Day.
 
My son has always wanted a tattoo. Specifically EGA on his back. He was smart and didn't get one. I also think if he does ever get one, he's now smart enough (with counseling from his Dad) to not get anything that would identify him as a current or former US military person. No point painting a neon sign for the bad guys if they catch you in civvies or buck naked.
 
My recommendation is wait until after you are commissioned. And I am someone that is covered in about a dozen tattoos. It is best to wait, even during my short time in the Marine Corps the tattoo policies changed dramatically. Don't bring any attention to yourself at this point of time. Wait until you are out in the fleet and know and understand what your service policy is and any unique stipulations that come with your MOS/career field. I have seen more careers stalled, limited, etc by tattoo choices made at very young ages. Wait until you are older and out in the fleet and then re-evaluate your choices.
 
I'm confident napxc16 is sufficiently spooked that he'll likely be heading to confession, joining his church choir, letting his ear-ring hole close, and maybe even throw away his stash of pornography and supply of smokeless tobacco.:eek: :rolleyes::thumb:

Go get 'em and skip the 'too until your growth plates stop expanding. Don't shoot yourself in your piggy-toe, tattooed or not.

And if you must? Make sure it's an "iron-on" pole dancer with a dixie-cup cap on!:shake:
 
Tattoo

Why? Go get a temporary one to satisfy your immediate urge. You can always upgrade later to a real one if you feel the need. Why create an issue? All the friends I know who got a temporary one never upgraded. Also, over half my friends that got tattoos wish they never did.
 
Wait in line with all of the 13 year old girls at the beach to get your Henna tattoo.
 
Just wait. I have two tattoos and every time I apply for anything there is strict documentation. As an enlisted candidate, it makes things a little harder. Just wait.
 
But, you know everyone else is doing it, so it must be OK, right? Great thought processes for a "future leader". Wow...just wow!
 
There is a large population of people here with tattoos. In particular those males of Hawaiian/Samoan origin have tattoos on their arms that are visible when they wear short sleeve shirts (pay attention next time you watch a navy football game). If you can play the religion/culture card, you can get away with having a tattoo
 
There is a large population of people here with tattoos. In particular those males of Hawaiian/Samoan origin have tattoos on their arms that are visible when they wear short sleeve shirts (pay attention next time you watch a navy football game). If you can play the religion/culture card, you can get away with having a tattoo
Yep. Well said. Like many things, the answer to "tattoo on you?" ... is "it depends."

And on I Day, USNA even threatened to boot Polamalu out with his Samoan 'toos. Who knows what really gave him is "waiver."

Check out some of his side of the story if you've not seen this. btw, it's really pretty cool and interesting, all "tatooing" aside.

http://www.youtube.com/movie?v=STwmUamKokI&feature=mv_sr
 
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