The Salute
Scattered among the thousands and thousands of attendees at the Trump Inaguration, there were quite a few Marines. They were easy to spot because of their gleaming white hats and impeccable dress attire. It was hard to tell whether or not they had an actual role in security because they did not appear to be armed. They were, however, certainly vigilant.
Now, I have been told by many people in the military (unofficially, of course) that Barack Obama is not popular among our troops. Over his eight years he has not only cut the size and effectiveness of our military, he has “retired” a surprising number of traditionalist generals (I have read a list which is over twenty five names long), and slighted service members on many occasions (remember the “Starbucks salute”?). Also, of greatest importance, he failed to mobilize a rescue attempt for our Benghazi security team in mortal danger, resulting in the deaths of four Patriots. For all these reasons you would understand a certain lack of enthusiasm on the part of the Marines in attendance. However, when Mr. Obama (still in his role as President) was introduced on the podium, every single one of the Marines in my line of sight, immediately stood at attention and immediately saluted him. Every single one. I could see that, as far as they were concerned, Mr. Obama, at that moment was STILL President, and, as such was STILL the Commander-In-Chief, and was saluted accordingly.
I must say, I admire their fierce dedication and loyalty. I just wish that Mr. Obama, during his tenure, had returned this level of respect in kind.