He was a good, all-around American boy. And he's a fallen hero.

For the first time in 62 years, I have peace in my heart over the death of my good ole' buddy.

This is a miracle. I always wondered if he had been shot down ... or if his plane had gone down in the ocean, if he was hanging from his parachute in the jungle.

Back then, if a man could walk, he would go into service.

Hugh was a fine boy. He was a good all- American boy. He was tall, slender and played basketball. He was the center. We were real close.

If I had known, I could have accepted his death better. I'm now satisfied with where he's at.