Chester
Chester, the protagonist, is a young Navajo boy who grows up in New Mexico. His favorite pastime is listening to his parents tell stories about their people in generations past and their traditions. He has firsthand experience of the brutal, untrustworthy relationship between his people and the United States government, yet when war breaks out he sees the importance of the U.S. victory and enlists. When he's young, Chester is an impetuous boy who is eager to demonstrate his combat prowess. His service during the war remains significant to him throughout his life, as are the memories of the traumatic events which he witnessed overseas. He becomes a sort of cultural ambassador for his people in the 70s.
Roy Begay
Roy is another Navajo who serves as a code-talker. He is also Chester's best friend from childhood.
Ethel
Ethel meets Chester in college at the University of Kansas. They fall in love and marry. After two miscarriages and giving birth to four sons, she feels under-appreciated by her husband, especially since he becomes emotionally distant after the miscarriages. When he begins his speaking tours in the 70s, Chester all but abandons his marriage. Ethel makes it official when she divorces and leaves him to raise their sons.
Stanley
Stanley is Chester's second oldest son who dies in a car accident in 1974.
Dora
Dora is Chester's sister. She's been his biggest fan since they were kids. After Stanley's death, she invites him to move in with her to which he acquiesces and lives happily until her death.
Mike
Mike is Chester's eldest. He still live in Albuquerque where he grew up. After Dora's death, he and his wife take in Chester, where he lives until his death.
Chester's Parents
Chester's parents are proud Navajo. They grew up on a reservation but move to the Checkboard, neighboring territory. They have a long history of conflict with the United States government, but they persevere. They raise their children with rich understanding of their cultural heritage. Especially Chester's dad is proud to learn of his son's code work during the war since he was able to put his native language to good use and to honor his ancestors with the work.
