Though the USMC tattoo has come under scrutiny in 2007 and it has been scaled down in a sense it has survived the trials of disparagement. The traditional eagle, globe, and fouled anchor is still a proud symbol of the marines and it is a USMC tattoo often seen on the arms of leathernecks.

Another traditional symbol of the Marines that is seen in the USMC tattoo form is the English bulldog mascot. It is rooted in World War I. In an ironic twist, it came about because of the respect the Germans had for their ferociously fighting foes—the U.S. Marines. The Germans said that the leathernecks were teufel hunden meaning devil dogs. The Marine Corps like the handle and it became part of a recruiting poster from the World War II era. A dachshund on the poster is depicted wearing a spiked helmet with an iron cross insignia on it; the dachshund is running from an English bulldog; he wore a helmet with a globe and anchor insignia on it.

As with other USMC tattoos the mascot USMC tattoo has historical significance. Knowing the history behind any USMC tattoo is a fascinating and inspiring experience. The emblems and insignia didn’t just come out of nowhere, but are firmly established in history and the hard won freedom that we cherish in the United States. When you wear a USMC tattoo, you boldly state your position and pride in the United States Maine Corps. Get bold, get proud, and wear it.