“It is a military axiom not to advance uphill against the enemy, nor to oppose him when he comes downhill. Do not pursue an enemy who simulates flight; do not attack soldiers whose temper is keen. Do not swallow bait offered by the enemy. Do not interfere with an army that is returning home. When you surround an army, leave an outlet free. Do not press a desperate foe too hard. Such is the art of warfare”
The Art of War – Sun Tzu

This reminds me of the phrase, “Honor amongst thieves.”

Somewhere along the line the impersonal aspects of war, wrought by the technology of long range weaponry, have made it possible to not only cease waiting until we see the whites of their eyes, but also to cease waiting until we see them at all. It was only two world wars ago when competing poilots would land to see if the guy they just shot down was OK, buy him a drink, and congratulate him on a rousing melee. Now is the time of true no quarter given, none taken, and carpet bombing. Should we be pleased with our progress?