David Nichols was a man I met through the mountains. He was on Everest with one of my best pals Al McLeod who fell and was killed whilst soling the North Face of the Matterhorn. He ended up a Brigadier in the Marines but Al always spoke highly of him. On that trip to Everest Dave and Al were on the rarely climbed West Ridge route on Everest. They were on the summit attempt on the Horbeinn Colouir when sadly they had to turn back due to deteriorating weather.
When Al was killed a few years later Dave came to the funeral. There was no fuss and he spoke to Al’s family. He helped me at that that awful time. I met him on several occasions after that always chatty and had tine for you. We last met in the Falklands where he was the top man a Brigadier yet he came over and had coffee with my self much to my bosses astonishment. I was sent this by a good friend of his: Thank you Stevan Jackson.
Today would have been David Nicholls’ 74th birthday. David was an extraordinary individual who touched the lives of many people. For those of us in the military mountaineering community, he was a source of inspiration as a climber with a remarkable list of ascents to his name. Beyond his climbing achievements, David was a dear friend, confidante, trusted guide, coach, and mentor to me. His memory continues to be a powerful influence in my life, and I strive to follow his example as a role model. I miss him dearly.
inspiration #rolemodel
Comments welcome as always.
Peter Weatherhill ex RAF. MRT Leader “Dave was the leader of the 1980 Navy expedition to Phabram. Had the honour to be on the same expedition.”
Bill Batson – ex RAF TeamLeader and Chief Instructor. “A wonderful man. Gone too soon.”
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