He is said to have repeated some version of this in various forms throughout the tour.

He was describing what he actually believed.

He had survived when others hadn’t, and the photograph had elevated him and the other survivors to a symbolic status that he felt those who died deserved at least as much.

The bond tour also introduced Hayes to a pattern that would follow him for the rest of his life: alcohol.

He began drinking heavily during the tour.

The social engagements required drinking.