February 26

Fritz Wiessner was a German-born mountaineer who led one of the earliest Himalayan expeditions to Nanga Parbat in 1932, reaching unprecedented heights. Emigrating to the United States in 1935, he introduced advanced roped climbing techniques to American alpinism, pioneering first ascents on New York's Shawangunk Ridge. During World War II, Wiessner served in the U.S. Army Air Forces and later shared his expertise through writings and lectures. His bold approach to technical big-wall and high-altitude climbing influenced generations of climbers. Known for his meticulous planning and endurance, Wiessner is remembered as a foundational figure in modern mountaineering.