Homesickness can strike hard, especially when you’re stationed far from the familiar streets and vibrant culture of your hometown. For Joe Criel II, serving in the US Navy in Japan, the pull of Chicago became increasingly strong. His solution? A powerful and personal tattoo, a tribute etched in ink that speaks volumes about his love for the city of Chicago. This isn’t just any tattoo; it’s a bold statement of identity and belonging, a piece of home carried across continents. Joe’s story resonates with many who find solace and connection through body art, particularly when it represents something deeply meaningful like their city of origin.
The Meaning Behind the Chicago Flag Stars
Joe’s tattoo isn’t a random design; it’s a deliberate homage to the iconic Chicago city flag. For those unfamiliar, the Chicago flag is instantly recognizable by its three horizontal white stripes and two light blue ones, but it’s the six red stars that truly carry the weight of the city’s history and spirit. As Joe proudly explains, each star has a significant meaning, representing pivotal moments and values that define Chicago:
- The first star: Commemorates Fort Dearborn, an early U.S. Army fort that played a role in the city’s beginnings.
- The second star: Honors the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, a devastating event that led to the city’s remarkable resilience and rebirth.
- The third star: Represents the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893, a symbol of Chicago’s ambition and global significance.
- The fourth star: Celebrates the Century of Progress International Exposition of 1933–34, further solidifying Chicago’s innovative spirit.
While there are only four stars officially on the flag, many Chicagoans, like Joe, embrace the idea of two additional stars, often unofficially recognized:
- The potential fifth star: Sometimes considered to represent immigration, a cornerstone of Chicago’s diverse and vibrant population.
- The potential sixth star: Often proposed to honor Chicago’s rich cultural and sporting heritage, or specifically the city’s contributions to civil rights and social justice.
Joe’s tattoo, featuring these stars, becomes a powerful emblem of Chicago pride. It’s a conversation starter, an educational tool, and a personal connection to the city’s rich tapestry of history and culture. He recounts how often people inquire about the “stars,” sometimes even mistaking them for “Stars of David,” providing him with the perfect opportunity to share his Chicago story.
Chicago Pride: More Than Just a Tattoo
For Joe, Chicago is more than just a birthplace; it’s an integral part of his identity. His passionate description of the city echoes the sentiments of countless Chicagoans. He lists a roll call of iconic musicians who hail from the Windy City, spanning genres from hip-hop (Chance the Rapper, Kanye West) and R&B (Jennifer Hudson, R. Kelly, Nat King Cole) to rock and alternative (Alkaline Trio, Styx, and even ties to bands like Soundgarden and blink-182). This musical heritage is just the tip of the iceberg.
Chicago’s cultural landscape is a vibrant mix, boasting:
- Culinary Delights: From the world-famous deep-dish pizza to a diverse food scene celebrated at events like the Taste of Chicago.
- Natural Beauty: Lake Michigan’s stunning shoreline and iconic landmarks like Lincoln Park.
- Architectural Marvels: The Loop, the city’s downtown core, and historical skyscrapers like the former Sears Tower (now Willis Tower).
- Historical Significance: Infamous figures like Al Capone and a rich history celebrated in museums and cultural institutions.
- Festivals and Traditions: From the vibrant Pride celebrations in June to the uniquely Chicagoan St. Patrick’s Day river dyeing.
Joe’s tattoo is a visual shorthand for all of this – a way to carry the essence of Chicago with him, wherever he goes.
Connecting with Home Through Ink
Beyond the symbolism and cultural references, Joe’s tattoo is a deeply personal expression of homesickness and longing. Stationed far away, the tattoo serves as a constant reminder of his roots and the place he considers home. It’s a source of comfort and connection, allowing him to feel closer to Chicago even when physically distant.
He cherishes the moments when he encounters fellow Chicagoans, a rare but treasured experience in his overseas posting. These encounters become instant bonding opportunities, sharing stories of growing up in Chicago and their paths to military service. Even when others don’t immediately recognize the Chicago flag stars, the tattoo sparks curiosity and allows Joe to share his pride and passion for his city.
Joe’s “City Of Chicago Tattoos” story is a testament to the power of body art to express identity, connection, and pride. It’s a reminder that tattoos can be more than just ink on skin; they can be powerful symbols of who we are and where we come from, bridging distances and keeping us connected to the places we love. For Joe, his Chicago tattoo is a piece of home, carried with honor and pride, from Okinawa to wherever his service takes him next.
