I'm guessing he has a presta valve tube.
In cycling, there are two types of valve stems for inner tubes.
Schraeder is the one that you are most used to seeing. They are bigger, the ends are threaded and there is a spring activated relief mechanism inside. These are the type found on most car tires.
The other, is a Presta Valve. Most likely what you have. There is a little tip that unthreads. What you really need is an adapter. Go to most bike shops and ask for a presta/schrader adapter. They're usually about $1 or $2.
You loosen the little tip, push it to make sure the seal is broken, then you screw the adapter on and fill the tire like you normally would.
__________________
"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "WOW, What a Ride!" - unknown
"Your Bike Sucks" - Sky Yaeger