Few items are as personalized, in a military where everyone is dressed the same, and ‘uniformity’ is preached.  Their origins are the Civil War, and were first carved from wood to help identify remains.

Almost half of the Civil War dead remain unidentified, this is what brought about the first official dog tag issuing by Chaplain Charles C. Pierce in 1899.  Later made mandatory by the Army, they became aluminum chains just 18 years after their official inception.

They are issued by all branches, but aren’t always required to be worn now days.  Soldiers in battle are required to wear them, but you will rarely see those outside of combat showcasing them.

The Future of Dog Tags
Meat Tags or Dog Tag Tattoos are becoming more popular, basically a tattoo of personal info on the torso.  Micro chips with medical info are also being experimented with to add to the dog tags.

Military Info On The Tags
Each service department has their own version, but here is the generalized list:

1. Blood Type
2. Religious Beliefs
3. Name
4. Social Security Number
5. Branch of Service

Non-Military Wear
A recent fashion trend has those wishing to feature a tough image wearing dog tags.  They can be inscribed with a persona details, band logo, a favorite quote, beliefs, or tastes.  They even are used for health problems like epilepsy or heart problems.

Some specialized dog tags can be worn as jewelry or this dog tag bottle opener for ‘special’ purposes.

To get a pair of dog tags for yourself, OutInStyle can inscribe your info onto it for you.  Check out all their styles, they have ones you’ve I bet you’ve never seen before.  Check them out at their site here.

Written by Bill Wayne, member of the Best Military Surplus team