This issue is SO critical. Are we going to fight this war, or are we going to play patty-cake with our avowed enemies?
Don't get me wrong, I do not condone atrocities...which I view as needless killing, butchery and thugary for their own sakes. In my world, Hiroshima and Nagasaki were not atrocities. They were horrible, terrible decisions that had to be made to win the war and preserve more life.
LTC West's actions and decisions were on par with that IMHO, and should not be condemmed. He should be extolled and the rules should re revisited for this type of action IMHO.
Sorry to get long winded...but this is one that strikes way down to the core IMHO.