So based on the UN's definition, it's ok to shoot someone for the purpose of eliminating them from this earth, but if you yell at them too long, that's just mean and constitutes torture
This is war, bad things happen. Whatever happened to the saying, "all is fair in love and war"? If waterboarding or even torturing someone will save the lives of Americans or other allies, why not do it? Heck, if the guy you're waterboarding has the right info, you may even be able to end the war sooner, saving lives on both sides of the battle field.
Following that train of thought, what is more torturous? Causing discomfort to a select few, or forcing thousands to go back out onto the battlefield, not knowing if they'll return.