The Origins of Camp Hale: How the U.S. Army scouted, selected, and developed Colorado’s high-altitude Pando Valley site to create a training ground for mountain warfare.
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Episode Synopsis:
In Episode 11 of Ninety-Pound Rucksack, Christian Beckwith explores the origins of Camp Hale, the high-altitude training ground where the mountain troops were transformed into the elite mountain warfare unit of the U.S. Army. Nestled in Colorado’s Pando Valley, Camp Hale wasn’t just any military base—it was a place where soldiers would develop the skills and toughness needed to fight in Europe’s mountains during World War II.
The episode covers the decision-making process behind the camp’s selection, the incredible logistical challenges of building it, and the impact it had on both the 10th Mountain Division and the nearby town of Leadville. As we follow the personal journey of John Andrew McCown II, a climber-turned-soldier, we get a glimpse of the broader legacy of Camp Hale, not only in military history but also in shaping post-war outdoor recreation and skiing in America.
Key Points:
- Origins of Camp Hale: How the U.S. Army scouted, selected, and developed the high-altitude Pando Valley site to create a training ground for mountain warfare.
- Key Figures: Brigadier General Harry Lewis Twaddle and Colonel Onslow Rolfe were instrumental in bringing Camp Hale to life.
- Challenges of Construction: The environmental and logistical challenges involved in building a base for 15,000 soldiers and 5,000 mules at 9,200 feet in just seven months.
- John McCown’s Story: The personal journey of John Andrew McCown II, a climber-turned-soldier, whose rise through the ranks paralleled the evolution of the 10th Mountain Division.
- Leadville’s Origins & Relationship to Camp Hale: The rich history of Leadville, once a booming silver mining town, and how the proximity to Camp Hale redefined its role during WWII. The town’s “triple iniquities” (saloons, gambling, and prostitution) posed unique challenges for the military, leading to a strained yet interdependent relationship between the base and the community.
Featured Segments:
- Opening Segment: Christian Beckwith introduces the episode and highlights the significance of Camp Hale in the 10th Mountain Division’s history.
- Interview with Lance Blyth: Military historian and Ninety-Pound Rucksack advisory board member Lance Blyth discusses the requirements for selecting Camp Hale and the challenges involved in its development.
- On the Ground: A vivid description of the construction process at Camp Hale, bringing to life the stories of the workers, engineers, and military personnel who made it happen.
- Expert Insights: Ninety-Pound Rucksack Advisory Board members Sepp Scanlin and Chris Juergens provide context on the camp’s construction and its impact on Leadville, Colorado, while Colorado ski mountaineering pioneer Lou Dawson describes the topography and climactic challenges of Camp Hale.
- John McCown’s Journey: A narrative that ties McCown’s personal climbing experiences to his role in the formation of the 10th Mountain Division.
Partnership Acknowledgements: We’d like to thank our partners, without whom this podcast wouldn’t be possible: the 10th Mountain Division Foundation, Denver Public Library, The American Alpine Club, 10th Mountain Division Descendants, and the 10th Mountain Alpine Club. Their continued support helps us uncover and share the rich history of the 10th Mountain Division.
Sponsorship Acknowledgements: Special thanks to our sponsors for their generous support of Ninety-Pound Rucksack:
- CiloGear: Makers of the best alpine backpacks in the industry. Get 5% off your purchase and support the 10th Mountain Alpine Club by entering the code “rucksack” at checkout at cilogear.com.
- Snake River Brewing: Wyoming’s oldest and America’s most award-winning small craft brewery. Whether you’re enjoying an Earned It Hazy IPA or celebrating with a Dirty 30 IPA, Snake River Brewing is the perfect après-adventure beer. Visit their brew pub in Jackson or find them in stores throughout Wyoming, Idaho, Colorado, and Montana.
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Check out our upcoming events, including Christian Beckwith’s keynote at the Mazamas’ 130th Anniversary Dinner in Portland on September 25, 2024, and the Ninety-Pound Rucksack Challenge on February 18, 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of the Riva Ridge climb.
To learn more or become involved, visit christianbeckwith.com.