Lets consider the scenario of Sarah Palin getting the same reception and how ABC would have reported the event:
Gov Sarah Palin today received a cold shoulder from Marines and their families in Hawaii when she attempted to surprise them at Christmas dinner. Their reaction was decidedly cold as they did not clap or show any other outward sign of recognition until she approached each table where she received a cold but polite welcome..........
Now, consider this episode and compare it to President Bush’s Thanksgiving dinner entrance in Iraq some years ago where he brought down the house at a military dining facility when he brought in the turkey. The affection and loyalty shown to Bush contrasts sharply with the disdain and comtempt shown for the next President.
I dont think I have ever heard of a President or President-Elect getting this sort of reaction from uniformed military personnel. And ABC calls it “polite.” I call it a polite way of telling Obama to go to hell and get the ..... away from their Christmas dinner.
I don't recall ever hearing of a president-elect prancing around military bases at Christmas acting like he's the president already.
These troops are alert enough to realize that right now Obama is a nobody who has no authority and no office. He doesn't warrant any particular recognition at this stage. Plenty of time for them to do their duty after inauguration day.