Expedition participant in 1952

René Dittert 1911–1983, Chief Engineer

As specialist mountain climbing leader of the pre-monsoon expedition in 1952, René Dittert was able to combine significant experience of the Himalayas with the real zeal of a mountaineer and born improviser. The dynamic combination of desire and ability in this firebrand provided particularly powerful indicators for the extraordinary enterprise on Everest. Dittert followed the principle set by Nelson, never to ask someone to do anything that he would not be prepared to do himself. His team spirit drove him to the edge of self-denial, putting others first and never denying anyone his chance.