U.S. Marines line up to get their tattoos of choice done before the new policy that bans any new, extra-large tattoos below the elbow or knee comes in force on Sunday deadline.

"Some Marines have taken the liberty of tattooing themselves to a point that is contrary to our professional demeanor and the high standards America has come to expect from us. I believe tattoos of an excessive nature do not represent our traditional values," says the new rule crafted by Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James T. Conway.

The ban is aimed primarily at "sleeve" tattoos, the large and often elaborate designs on the biceps and forearms of many Marines. Similar very large tattoos will be banned on the lower legs and on the upper arm, if they are visible when a Marine wears his workout T-shirt. Small, individual tattoos will still be allowed on the arms and legs.

Marine's caught with fresh ink in the restricted areas will risk being barred from re-enlistment or possible disciplinary action.

At Camp Pendleton, the West Coast’s biggest Marine base, many Marines scheduled last-minute appointments at the local tattoo shops in order to beat the deadline.

For many Marines, getting a tattoo is a rite of passage. They commonly get their forearms inscribed to remember fallen comrades, combat tours or loved ones, and often ask for exotic designs that incorporate the Marine motto, Semper Fi ("Always Faithful").

Cpl. David Nadrchal is planning to get an Iraqi flag and his deployment dates inked onto his lower leg.

"This is something I love to do... The fact I can’t put something on my body that I want — it’s a big thing to tell me I can’t do that."

The Marines and the other branches of the military already ban tattoos that could be offensive or disruptive, such as images that are sexist, vulgar, gang-related or extremist.