As Ed Morrissey points out, this was a nice gesture on the part of Obama. He didn't have to do it since he isn't CinC yet. And he didn't make a huge production out of it either.

The reception Obama got from the Marines, however, was respectful but quiet. This, according to ABC News:

As Obama entered the room it was absent of the regular fanfare of cheering and clapping. The diners were polite; staying seated at their respective tables and waited for the President-elect to come to them to stand up.

Obama, dressed casually in a blue polo shirt and dark khaki trousers, worked his way around the room – table by table – and took pictures with the service members. He slapped them on the back at times, shook hands, and signed some autographs.

“Hey guys, Merry Christmas,” The President-elect said as he walked from table to table.

Apparently, the Marines were in the middle of dinner but did rise when Obama moved to their individual tables.

Morrissey commends Obama for his effort in visiting the troops and I suppose it merits a nod in his direction as a nice gesture. But I think the reaction of the Marines is significant - and smart. They are reserving judgment on Obama and will wait to see how he performs first.

Sounds like good advice for all of us.