On a visit to Turkey on April 6, 2009, President Obama flinched at the sound of a one gun salute during a ceremony. View the video clip and tell me what your thoughts are on this. Does this change your opinion of President Obama? How do you think President Obama handled himself? Do you think the media made too much out of nothing? Did anyone else at the ceremony have the same reaction?
It is my belief that President Obama handled himself well. Knowing he hasn't been situated in that lifestyle and isn't accustomed to their day-to-day, anyone would have most likely flinched at the sound of a gun salute. Certainly we are never truly prepared for the sound a gun makes and either are we at different sounds. Little things can startle us and I think it's certainly no indication of him handling himself in any way that's unprofessional. His body just reacted and that cannot be helped. The media will always be one to subject someone and blow things out of proportion - but that is their job - to gain people's attention, draw attention and create juice for their story. I'm sure there were others present at the ceremony who had a similar reaction, but because they are not in the public spotlight 24/7, you never hear about them.
ReplyDeleteI didn't think Obama's reaction to the one gun salute was anything out of the ordinary. If anyone was standing with their back to the firing arm and it went off, their common reaction would be to flinch some as well. He slightly moved his body; there was no overreaction with a ducking motion or quickly stepping away. I think it was a very natural response.
ReplyDeleteJill, what do you think would have happened if Obama did do a duck and cover? Do you think that would have changed your opinion?
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jill. It would be a typical reaction for anyone standing with their back to the one gun salute, to be startled.
ReplyDeleteAside from that fact, I am sure it would be very difficult for anyone in President Obama's position and with his responsibilities to feel on edge at times.