Sec. A Page 33 Missoulian Centennial Photograph – Ancestors in Mural Behind Indian Leaders
Photograph – Ancestors in Mural Behind Indian Leaders
Standing in front of an Edgar S. Paxson mural in the Missoula County Courthouse in 1943 are, from left, Eneas Granjo, Indian interpreter; Chief Paul Charlo, great-grandson of Victor, treaty signer, and grandson of Charlo, who led the Flathead Indians from the Bitter Root Valley in 1891; Steve Matt, Indian interpreter, and son of a famous guide and scout who played a prominent part in white-Indian affairs in the early days, and Louis C. Charlo, descendant of Chiefs Victor and Charlo, and nephew of the Chief Charlo standing with him.
Louis Charlo was killed in action on the volcanic island of Iwo Jima March 2, 1945. His death came six days after he shared with three other Marines the distinction of being the first Americans to scale Mount Surabachi on Iwo Jima, two hours before a patrol marked its capture by planting a flag there.*
The mural depicts Chief Charlo leading his people from the Bitter Root Valley in 1891. Galloping up on a white horse at right is Martin Charlo, who succeeded the great leader as chief.
Below is a link to an article about Louis Charlo by B. L. Azure for the Char-Koosta News:
http://www.charkoosta.com/2008/2008_05_22/PFC_Charlo_remembered.html