Soldier Symbols - Australia plays down

Lieutenant General Angus Campbell, Chief of Army, did not send a memo on April 1st, but instead on April 10, 2018, instructing that any symbols related to death are to be removed from the official Australian military culture. Here is a quote from the letter – and in parentheses the reason why this is no longer desired: "[...] pirate Skull and Crossbones (maritime outlaws and murderers), the Phantom or Punisher symbols (vigilantes), Spartans (extreme militarism) or the Grim Reaper (bringer of death)[...]"

Death is certainly a constant companion in military operations, given that live ammunition is used. It is understandable that this is treated and represented in its own symbol culture. However, Campbell wants to eliminate the negative associations of these symbols and improve the image of the troops. He is aware that this will not be met with cheers from the units themselves. Attached below are screenshots of the letter, as well as a section from the second page that is still relevant. You can also see the images on Facebook HERE. Rumors that patches with martial kangaroos, sharks, and poisonous snakes would also be banned have not been confirmed yet.

Australian Army on the Internet: www.army.gov.au