cagelady,Hello and welcome. I am so sorry to hear about your friend and bless you for wanting to be able to support him. If he is at VA hospital then he has access to the medications that can help him be comfortable. I'm hoping the palliative care/hospice nurses are in the process of containing your friends symptoms through liberal use of morphine and anxiolytic. (Ativan is frequently chosen)
Also something to dry his secretions such as atropine, levsin drops or scopolamine would be appropriate if this is a problem for him.
Keeping your friend comfortable should be the goal of all the care givers at this time. Soft music, foot massages, whatever food or liquid he would like to try is good. My MIL liked having crushed ice for her dry mouth.
Also just sitting with your friend and talking about good times or just being in the room with him may be a huge comfort.
I will be sending prayers of comfort your friends way and for you - know we are here and talk with us anytime.
Kindly,
Kitt