Exchange Opens Fifth Tattoo Shop on Military Installation at Fort Drum

The Exchange continues to expand its portfolio of tattoo studios, opening its fifth location at Fort Drum on June 14.

Exchange tattoo studios provide a safe and professional environment for Soldiers, Airmen, Guardians and their families, said Director of Healthcare Services Jason Woods.

“Working closely with military leadership, the Exchange ensures services are compliant with all wear and appearance standards,” he said. “We also work with a provider well-known for their quality tattoos and the famous artists they bring in.”

Fort Drum Garrison Commander Col. James J. Zacchino Jr. helped Fort Drum General Manager Thea Sarver cut the ribbon on the studio.

“The Fort Drum Exchange is honored to provide a safe, trusted place here on post for Soldiers to get their tattoos, which have a long tradition in the military,” Sarver said.

The Exchange opened its first tattoo studio in September 2020 at Nellis Air Force Base. Since then, additional tattoo shops have opened at MacDill and Travis Air Force Bases and Fort Bliss. More than 4,900 tattoos have been provided at an Exchange-operated studio. The grand opening of a Fort Moore location is in the works, and a Fort Irwin location is set to open next month.

From left, Fort Drum Garrison Commander Col. James Zacchino and Fort Drum Exchange General Manager Thea Sarver, GM Administrative Assistant Liz Huntington, Services Business Manager Abigail Wilson, Services Vending Associate Megan Walter and Services Operations Assistant Lorin Puckett at the June 14 grand opening of American Tattoo Society at Fort Drum. (The associates are sporting temporary tattoos.)