Interview of David E. Baker by Dian O. Belanger
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Date
2009-04-23T17:45:48Z
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Byrd Polar Research Center Archival Program
Abstract
Newly commissioned Ensign David Baker, an experienced winter mountaineer, eagerly volunteered for Antarctica, even when assigned to be a parachuting dogsled driver (for never-used rescue service). After hurried training in both dog handling and parachuting, he became the youngest officer to winter over at McMurdo during Deep Freeze I. He conducted survival training for South Pole construction teams, including tent-camping with full polar equipment and dog sleds, one of the dogs' few uses in this mechanized expedition. He was also the camp's communications officer. For Baker, steeped in polar history, it was a thrilling, life-changing experience to live in the shadow of the heroes of the polar continent.
Description
The Antarctic Deep Freeze oral history project was funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation and supported by the Antarctic Deep Freeze Association. The original paper copies and unaltered tapes have been deposited in the library of the National Science Foundation.