The Koi Fish

It can almost be considered a Navy tradition to get a tattoo. Mike had several. The last one he got was of a Koi fish. Traditionally seen in the Irezumi style from Japan, Mike's was a variation in that is black and gray.



The Japanese consider it the most spirited of fish, so full of energy and power that it can fight its way up swift-running streams and cascades. According to Japanese legend if a koi succeeded in climbing the falls at a point called Dragon Gate on the Yellow River it would be transformed into a dragon. Because of its strength and determination to overcome all obstacles, it stands for courage and the ability to attain high goals. The Koi is an appropriate symbol to encourage the overcoming of life's difficulties leading to consequent success.

More generally, the Japanese associate koi with perseverance in adversity and strength of purpose. Because of its strength and determination to overcome obstacles, it stands for courage and the ability to attain high goals.

Perseverance in Adversity. Strength of Purpose. Courage. Remember Mikey.