Well, I stomped it enough tonight to make up for things. New high score for me. I was surprised to get above a million without dropping below seven dudes. Still, there's always that point that comes. I was amazed to find myself coming back up from it once or twice, but eventually it was done.
OH, and to certify the game cheats: some boards I'd cleared of tanks, and then died. But, lo, back again and there was a tank or two! Um, Larry, Eugene...