Toro, props to you on this one. It is not the student or instructor's call on the crew rest issue. It was busted: period. I'd have to check the reg, but I believe the OG can waive it, but you need his/her permission FIRST (and you'd probably get it), but that is an issue where leadership gets to make the call. That plane and your butt is their responsibility and they have a right to know about it and clear you, if necessary.
I have had a guy in my squadron nearly thrown out of training for flying after busting crew rest. Others have simply shown up later than the crew brief and appropriately explained it as, "I was here late last night and couldn't call you guys because it would violate your crew rest. I came in once my crew rest was up." I had no issue with it and neither did instructors/leadership.