Yes, I noticed that a Para Corporal , whose photo appeared in the "Times" feature on recipients of the Military Cross etc , had one arm (his left , I think ) heavily tattooed in a similar style to that to which you allude . I think it is representative of a sort of "tribal membership ", a tangible sign of " belonging " to a certain group , clan , or organisation ; I have three tattoos from when , aged 16 , I had not long been in Her Majesty's Navy , and acted accordingly !
            
                Contrary to popular opinion , these behaviours are not just restricted to what some uneducated persons might refer to as the "lower orders" ; indeed , one RN Captain I served under, Captain J C Y Roxburgh , sported a massive tattoo on one forearm , as, I believe , did HM King George the Fifth.

                  Personally , although obviously somewhat biased , (!) , I have no objection to the practice , although I draw the line (no pun intended ) at " cut along the dotted line " on someone's throat, or stars on the forehead. I also find ladies with discreet and well-executed tattoos rather splendidly erotic !!