There may be an even more subtle subtext at work here. Everything is relative, after all, and it may be that the killer needs to consider the standard of cowardice being applied.
For example, our President has often described terrorists and evil doers as cowards. But being called a coward by the President may not be the grossest of insults, when you consider the high personal moral standards of the President.
To be called a coward by Parris Glendenning, however, is a whole different issue. To have it suggested that you are beneath that man's moral standards, wow! That is really hitting below the belt.
So I guess... since everything is relative and what is right for you is not right for me OR the sniper... Killing people is really okay.... of course for the sniper only... You see, killing for me is considered wrong and hideous.... but if its okay for the sniper.. then... that's alright, because we don't want to offend him.
--erik [/sarcasm off]