This I recall, and have learned of the details from Bono: When we fled the beach for our transports, sensible of our hazard, the enemy marching upon us across the fields, we splashed through the shallows — and I saw Better Joe standing desperately upon the shore behind us. He called for assistance.

I saw Charles return for him, despite their quarrel; saw him lift the old man upon his back and charge with him into the foam. Better Joe pushed at the young man’s head; seemed to remonstrate; and Charles said something in their tongue. Said Bono later, Better Joe had asked, “Why do you carry me?”— and Charles had replied swiftly, “Because it is an honor for a young man to carry his betters.” He held out his hand to be gripped.

And thus, they plunged toward the transport: young man with wise man upon his shoulders, dashing through the waves.