Obama shakes hands

[legendskid_44]

http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/02/05/obamas-first-ride-on-marine-one/

just thought it was pretty cool since i haven't seen any other president shake hands of the marine standing at the air stairs before.imp:

 

[boomlrd]

While I am definitely not an Obama supporter, I must say that gesture was in very good taste and professional. I am cautiously optimistic that this kind gesture is a symbol to all military members and their families that this president will be mindful or their needs.

 

[Hobit]

He needs to look like he supports the military before he slashes the budget.
Yes, I AM that cynical.
Make no mistake. This guys is not a friend of the military. In this case, it's 1992 redux.

 

[SIG600]

I'm with Hobit.

Bet that Marine was caught off guard.

 

[trip]

Surprised he didnt go for the bump, just a photo op.

 

[legendskid_44]

I'm with Hobit.

Bet that Marine was caught off guard.

well hell, wouldn't you be? the marine probably went back to his place and grabbed the manual and looked for "What to do when the commander in chief wants to shake your hand"

 

[coho92]

What do you mean wait, DOD has already been told to cut 55 billion

 

[Huggyu2]

http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/02/05/obamas-first-ride-on-marine-one/

just thought it was pretty cool since i haven't seen any other president shake hands of the marine standing at the air stairs before.imp:

There's a reason you haven't seen it before: it's not what Presidents traditionally do. While Mr Obama probably meant to show some sort of cool greeting, the fact he didn't appear to even return the salute is a direct reflection of his lack of understanding of military protocol and etiquette. I'm sure he meant no disrespect, but I'll be surprised if he does it the next time he flies Marine One. I'm hoping his military advisors will debrief him. He's the CinC, and he needs to get comfortable with that,... or at least act like he is.

 

[BEfly]

I retract my statement.

 

[MSNFlier]

He DID return the salute...

Before he went to shake the Marine's hand. Watch the whole video.