Sathi Ke Hola,

Sorry to hear that your friend's extension request has been denied.  By the way, while you called USCIS, did you talk to a customer service representative or an immigration officer?  I would believe only if it was an immigration officer. If  I were you, I would call again and see there next response. I have seen different answer  in another forum. Here is the link to the forum for your reference

http://forums.immigration.com/archive/index.php/t-152986.html

RHC