Letter: Scott, unsung hero
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Letter:Scott, unsung hero
Sir: If Robert Scott was sentimental, depressive, muddled and insecure ("The hero who melted", 15 September), so what?
Whatever mistakes were made in the preparation and execution of the Polar journey, the truth is Scott, Wilson and Bowers lost their lives to appalling weather.
When they died at the end of March (they had been held up by blizzards for more than a week) they were only 11 miles from their next food depot at One Ton Camp. Had they reached it, it is unlikely that we would be treated to regular attacks on Scott's name.
The party was on a starvation diet from the outset. All of them were suffering from frostbite, starvation and scurvy.
We don't hear the same derogatory remarks on more recent Polar walks for their dog-less assaults on the South Pole.
If Scott was the incompetent figure that Thomson portrays, how is it that he made such a shrewd choice in the men he took on both the Discovery and Terra Nova expeditions? Why would such clever and brave men volunteer to serve under him a second time?
Despite his own weaknesses, lack of physical prowess and ignorance on Polar matters, Scott accomplished so much and had that rare capacity that enabled those who served with him to excel beyond their own capabilities.
PETE KINNEAR
Newport-on-Tay, Fife
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments