Pal, buddy (6)
I believe the answer is:
friend
I believe this clue is a double definition.
'pal' is the first definition.
(I know that pal can be written as friend)
'buddy' is the second definition.
(I know that buddy can be written as friend)
(Other definitions for friend that I've seen before include "Associate, supporter" , "allowed to pass by the guard" , "Person with whom you have a bond of mutual affection" , "Supporter of cause" , "Member of a religious community" .)