Jim Erickson
Pat Ament
Pete Cleveland

Forum from beyond the grave.....

But now that we're on the subject, I want to salute the locals at every area who keep the balance in check between those who would bolt every existing piece of rock without regard, and those who would chop every one.

I salute those who email me privately to let me know that they hate chipping, ego tripping internet trolls, and pansies who make threats but don't dare to even use their real name. Just cause you're not clocking into every squabble to weigh in doesn't mean you don't care, and I love ya for it.

I salute climbers like myself, who got into it late, can hardly stand the sight (or smell) of other climbers half the time, but still join the access fund, get out and make an effort to help the climbing community have a say in BLM policy, and take out a trash bag to leave the hills cleaner every single time they go out.

I salute those who can disagree to their very core but be grown up enough not to have to toss around threats on some internet forum to make themselves feel tough.

I salute the youths who are going to push this sport further, and I promise I will never take away from their inheritance by putting up a crappy, contrived, manufactured route, where a difficult and unique one might have been instead.

I salute my heroes for blazing a pathway so that I can not have to make every mistake possible (though I still will, guaranteed).

I salute the people who get on mountainproject to learn about and help other climbers because they love climbing and care a lot.

My dad.
Only person I'd want to be like in and out.
Everyone else just do things I'd like to do.

Wow this thread is still going,

I will say it again then,

Doug Coombs and Chad Vanderham two of the best people, spirits, and skiers that ever lived.

Oh and anyone else who is having more fun than me

Owen Kent

My father, who recently died, was a true hero.

WWII veteran, B-17 pilot, shot down and jumped from a burning airplane, broke both ankles, POW in Germany for 18 months. Returned from the war and demanded no fanfare and got none. Spent the rest of his life as a farmer, very proud of the fact that he fed people. Provided an excellent life for his family. One of the "Greatest Generation" although he always denied it. The most humble and capable person I have ever had the joy of knowing.

I would be proud to be half the great man my father was.

Great tribute, Lee!. My condolences.

walter rosenthal

Kevin,

Thank you. I appreciate your post.

(My father was also very polite, and I am trying to emulate him).

Lee