My son was an officer. I can't speak for the rest, but I can tell you he would NEVER have ordered anyone to pose with him. If a higher commander ordered it, they would use some sign, like the crossed fingers. I hope they come up with something.
Good info here. Chance to pass the word.
Since Kerry was allegedly a Naval Officer, I suggest they take a lesson from the crew of the USS Pueblo when forced to pose for photographs by the North Koreans, and use the "Hawaiian Good Luck Symbol".
All images were originally released by the North Koreans. :)