It was brand new and sharp, a couple years ago
When I got the courage to give the needle a go
Three hours of blue ink, on a young man's skin
It was my first, but I'll be back again

Just a bald eagle, proud and true
For those that died for the red, white, and blue
Tags for our uncle and sweet grandad
Testament to the pride in country they had

Little brother, how'd you become more brave than I could be?
You're a thousand miles away, but I wish you could see
Brother, you make me so proud of you
Hope I never have to add to this eagle tattoo

You were 18 and green when you left home
Left off for Jackson in that rusty Tahoe
I pray those men never come with a folded flag
Then your name will be on my arm in another dog tag

Little brother, how'd you become more brave than I could be?
You're a thousand miles away, but I wish you could see
Brother, you make me so proud of you
Hope I never have to add to this eagle tattoo

Now I don't know where the hell you are
All I've got is your last letter and this guitar
I pray to God you'll find your way
But no matter what happens, all I've got to say

Little brother, how'd you become more brave than I could be?
You're a thousand miles away, but I wish you could see
Brother, you make me so proud of you
Hope I never have to add to this eagle tattoo