I think Charlie didn't escape from the the water 'rushing in' as it would only be a matter of time before one of Des vision's would not be able to save him. This way, he would die with everyone thinking he was a hero (something which had a profound meaning to him when he confronted the mugger in his flashback) - and also that he thought everyone would be saved - inc Claire and Arron - if he did die this time around. If he hadn't died would his actions have someohow prevented everyone else from leaving?

Very Spock-like death for Charlie - the needs of many outweighed the needs of the one.

I thnk it was Sawyer in the coffin - no-one came to the funeral - probably because no-one knew his name? Would explain why Jack thought Kate may have gone to it too?

Very interesting and entertaining few hours of tv - if only more shows could muster up this quality...