Jim Whittaker, the first American to summit Mount Everest, dies at 97
Briefly

Jim Whittaker, the first American to summit Mount Everest, dies at 97
""Whether at home, in the mountains, or at sea, he sought to share adventure, joy, and optimism with those around him. His warmth, humility, and belief in the power of nature to bring people together left an enduring legacy of care for our planet and for one another.""
""Long before outdoor advocacy was commonplace, Jim gave his voice and his leadership to protecting the places we love, reminding us that wild places endure only if we choose to care for them.""
Jim Whittaker, the first American to reach the summit of Mount Everest, has passed away at the age of 97. He was a significant figure in the outdoor industry, serving as the first full-time employee and later president of REI. Whittaker's ascent of Everest in 1963 sparked interest in mountaineering in the U.S. and made him a celebrity. He played a crucial role in outdoor advocacy, contributing to the establishment of several national parks and promoting care for the environment.
Read at www.npr.org
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