US Army set new tattoo rules

            Tattoos are a way to express yourself through your body. The Army is currently looking to ban tattoos in certain areas of the body. The law, Army Regulation 670-1, is seeking to add a new rule that restricts tattoos below the elbow and knee and above the neckline. A source tells ABC news that, “Soldiers who currently have tattoos in the banned area will be grandfathered in.” The current rule states that there is to be no tattoos on the head, face, or neck. Though the change seems small, it may be a big adjustment for some people looking to go into the Army. However, this regulation regards to only the Army. This new rule is estimated to be in effect in the next 30 to 60 days.

            I think this new rule is strictly prohibiting people’s expression of themselves. Due to the uniforms they currently wear, it is impossible to see the tattoos that are being banned. Therefore, I believe this new regulation has no point. If you can’t see it, why ban it? However, I understand the current restrictions regarding the head, face, and neck tattoos but to ban those unseen is unreasonable.  One question comes to mind when reading this article. What are they going to do with people who want to enlist into the army but have tattoos in these banned spots? People enlist into the army to serve their country. They shouldn’t have to be turned down for tattoos that will be unseen under the uniform.

Article: http://abcnews.go.com/US/us-army-set-implement-tattoo-rules/story?id=20358599