Mr. President, They Are Not Baristas; They Are Marines

It was the salute seen around the world.

President Obama was caught on video saluting marines with a coffee cup in his hand. Just call him Cappuccino-in-Chief.

The White House posted video to its Instagram account and soon weathered a torrent of outrage. The Washington Times dubbed the moment “Semper Latte.”

I’m surprised he didn’t order the marines to fetch him cream and sugar.

Before lunchtime, liberals had unearthed a photograph purportedly showing former President Bush saluting with a dog in his arms. As if that somehow makes what President Obama did OK.

I do not know the context of the Bush photo, but I will say this: If in fact he saluted marines with a dog in his hands, shame on him.

Wrong is wrong. This isn’t about politics. It’s about respect.

And President Obama’s lukewarm latte salute was a violation of protocol and common decency and a complete sign of disrespect.

Just remember, Mr. President: They are not baristas. They are marines.

Todd Starnes is host of Fox News & Commentary, heard on hundreds of radio stations. Sign up for his American Dispatch newsletter, be sure to join his Facebook page, and follow him on Twitter. His latest book is God Less America.