Re[3]: [WW] The Rules of War

[Arne Reuter <reuter@tse-online.de>]

Dear Alan!

>>But it does bring out some interesting questions. What if the pc
>>group has their opponents actually surrender to them? If they shoot
>>or torture them, that itself would constitute an evil/criminal act.
>>
>>And the group might claim to be heroes...
>>
>>Talk about morality in war ;-).
>>
> No lawyer here, but there are situations where one can kill prisoners
> legally. Such as where taking prisoners with you would place the 
> party in too great a danger. But check the actual conventions 
> themselves.

No lawyer here either, but thats exactly the point. Formally, the
killing of prisoners of war is _murder_, no less.

That way its a very tough decision, once enemies have surrendered to
you. Of course, commando forces deep behind enemy lines might operate
under different rules of engagement. A lawyer would probably say, that
those actually do not take prisoners. But they could still tie enemies
up, if they are leaving the area. Of course there is risk involved...

Another interesting thing: You can opt to take an enemies parole and
free him. Obviously this would only work in special cases (German and
British officers for example). The trick is, the prisoner has to agree
;-).

Regards,

Arne Reuter

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