Brain Fertilizer

So why do you think this is a bad thing for Kerry? (not that I disagree) but I just don't see this as a huge PR mistake.

If I was Joe-Sixpack at home, watching this on AOL/CNN, I would think those GIs were rude to the man who was trying to be nice.

I think currently-serving GIs, particularly Marines, have a reputation (bordering on mystique) that eclipses John Kerry's by a wide margin. Thus, I think Joe Sixpack will see this from the Marines' perspective: two Marines were trying to enjoy their lunch when a politician attempted to use them as a photo op against their will.
The picture makes Kerry look really, really bad.

This photo will not bear any impact whatsoever, I predict.

OTOH...I have been approached by more Republicans running for office than I can shake a stick at...and I have always been gracious and courteous when in receipt of their questions and handshakes. I was raised to believe that dignity and courtesy are the hallmarks of good breeding and upbringing.

I'm glad everyone finds it cute that these young men were terse with Senator Kerry. Where I come from, however, such behavior is merely a sign your daddy didn't paddle you enough and your momma's uncouth.

Sure, the picture won't make much difference. I never intended to imply I thought it would. But that picture does embody the main problem John Kerry has: understanding anyone who has less than $3 million of assets.
As far as breaches of etiquette go, "curt/terse" is not the same as "rude". It is, in fact, merely rigid politeness, in which the letter of propriety is observed while still letting someone know exactly what you think of them.
The person violating all accepted forms of etiquette was John Kerry and John Kerry alone: Pointing at someone in such an obviously aggressive manner is inexcusable...and, as Juliette pointed out (which is why I linked her rather than the news source itself), it is also not proper to disturb military members at meals (the only time/place they can relax during duty hours).
So, like I said: John Kerry just doesn't get it, and the longer he campaigns, the more clear the disconnect will be. John Kerry will continue to have "Let them eat cake" moments like this one, and the media will continue to downplay it as they proceed in their inethical attempt to get Democrats elected.

You're right. Kerry is oblivious of the effect he has on people. The more exposure he gets, the less people like him.
He needs to dig a deep hole and hide in it from now until the election. Then he might have a chance.

Hey man! Where are you?