Of Snow, Soldiers and Avalanches
A winter ascent of Piz Bernina by Swiss mountain soldiers under the command of Major Charles Golay. The film also shows images of avalanche research, the use of avalanches as a weapon, avalanche rescue by dogs, and other military maneuvers. An early color Swiss military film by Major Charles Golay and Egon Sommer.
Ascent to the Bernina Massif
"An early color film presented as 'Ascent to the Bernina Massif'. Two mountaineers break from the Forno hut and first climb the Punta Rasica and then the needle Fiamma. The mountaineers are equipped with canvas backpack, felt hats, hemp rope, woodpickel and cigarettes. Climbing is done in knickerbockers. The pictures give a good insight into the climbing style of the two men. Finally, they squat on the tip of the needle and enjoy the panoramic view, before they descend by rappel."
With a Company on Piz Palü
"A 'Full-day exercise in the Bernina area' by mountain soldiers under the command of Major Charles Golay. At two o'clock, 130 men broke up in Pontresina, and they were standing on the Piz Palu about an hour and a half later, and returned to Pontresina in daylight. With the spectacular action Golay introduced the superiors as well as the public the winter suitability of the mountain groups. Bartholome Schocher and Andreas Pedrett were the filmmakers and the young Egon Sommer the photographer."