The mindset and society habits in the 1860's tend to greatly differ from those of modern era's... The old saying "a wounded or conquered foe is no longer a formidable one", hense in such situations the fraturnal bond of brotherhood frequently takes the place of what had been a hostile enemy just minutes previous... There are countless accounts of such actions during the war.... on both sides...

Just recently while researching something else came across this account....

Dr. McGuire’s (Confederate Surgeon) horse made a gallant effort to jump a rail fence, the two went tumbling into the mud. When McGuire stood up, he was greeted by a Union cavalryman pointing a gun in his face. McGuire immediately made a secret Masonic distress order which was recognized by another Union officer who intervened and took charge of the mud splattered McGuire

Frederick