Jackonicko's understanding is {I believe} correct.
Warriors showing that they were unarmed, while raising their helmet face shields etc.
Wasn't it the Romans who saluted with their right hand while travelling on all of the roads that led to Rome. Thus proving that the original road rules required foot traffic, gladiators and charoits to keep to the left!.
Obviously throught the years, some inrerpretations have been added, both in salutations and road rules.
Spelling Again!!
[ 30 September 2001: Message edited by: Ex F111 ]