when folks think about "the french" they're quick to imagine "frogs...retreat" but this LE officer had a chance and made a call. Sometimes there is no right call, you just figure out your best option in a situation and go with it. I believe this dude did. You forget about the profile and have an opportunity to learn a lot about "the person" in these types of moments.
http://abc7.com/he-fell-a-hero-french-praise-policeman-in-hostage-swap/3257014/
"Aigle de Guerre" Arnaud Beltrame