Why does Paul speak to the dead French soldier

After their altercation, Paul realizes that the solder is still alive. He has compassion for him, attempts to make him comfortable, and collects the man's possessions to send back to his family anonymously ... Paul apologizes to the dead soldier because during their short time together, he finds himself made aware of the man's humanity. The dead soldier was no longer an enemy ... he was a member of the human race ... a printer, husband and father.