It just struck me as interesting. it's not something I'd ever ask someone.... but then again..as you said...vets here switch sides and have more interpersonal relationships on various sides. as stupid as this might sound.......I'd never switch sides either.......but.....I understand it.
Its not even that. I knew who he was but I dont "know him". I'd do the same to anyone else who had a bunch of kills to land and was helpless, "well almost anyone". A guy who can spawn into an airbase in a T-34, with almost all the advantage on the defenders side, and still kill 11 defenders??? He deserves a

and a pass if he asks. A T-34, tracked with no friendly uppers or flak around, is basically helpless to my IL2.
I know the game is just make believe but still I live my life by codes. One such code is to respect an honorable enemy and not grind his face into the ground just because I can. And while just a game there are actual people connected to the other end of that cartoon vehicle so why not do a good turn and be respectful towards them?
The fact that I dont shoot up what others have strived to shoot down is also a gesture of respect. Its the same reason I call people "sir' in the game or spend time getting supplies to strangers. The same reason I dont cuss or scream nonsense on the vox.
Most play the same way. While we do have some nitwits in the game, for the most part, guys play honorably.