Everest 2003: Charlie Wittmack
Dispatch

Ministry in Nepal May 27, 2003 It has now been confirmed by the Ministry in Nepal: The Following 2 members & 4 Sherpas of "Dream Everest 2003 Expedition" team have been successful to climb the summit of 8848m. High Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) on 22 May 2003 at 8:10 AM to 9:20 AM.

Name of the Summiteers

1. Mr. Sean Burch (32 Yrs), Consultant, Penderwood Dr.Oakton, Virginia, USA. (Summit at 9:20 AM)
2. Mr. Charles Wittmack, Student, Woodlawn Dr. Des Moines, USA. (Summit at 8:10 AM)
3. Mr. Nima Gyalzen Sherpa (26 Yrs), HAS, Gaurisankar-1, Dolkha, Nepal.
4. Mr. Mingma Nuru Sherpa (31 Yrs), HAS, Khumjung-7, Solukhumbu, Nepal.
5. Mr. Pasang Tharke Sherpa (31 Yrs), HAS, Namche-7, Solukhumbu, Nepal.
6. Mr. Pema Temba Sherpa (37 Yrs), HAS, Khumjung-8, Solukhumbu, Nepal.

The 8 members "Dream Everest 2003 Expedition" team was permitted to climb 8848 Meter high Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) from South East Ridge for the period of Seventy-five days from 25 March 2003 under the leadership of Mr. Robert Huygh (56 Yrs), Salesman from Leliestr, Ternat, Belgium.

And, of more importance to his parents, sister and many others, it has also been confirmed that Charlie has returned safely to Kathmandu! Our prayers have been answered: he is returning in one piece, with all of his pieces!

At this point his mother, Dee, sister Ellen and I  want to express our thanks to all of you for your support of the expedition, Charlie and us during these past several months; especially during the three recent days during which all communication with Charlie was lost. Your notes and calls of support (and now of congratulations) have been greatly appreciated and have been archived for Charlie upon his return. 

As much as Charlie and we would like to be able to respond to each of you individually, the group has grown so large it is just not possible. Though this e-mail we hope you will feel and accept our sincerest appreciation for your many thoughtful expressions of concern, support, and celebration! Art Wittmack

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