Pontresina: Life in the High Alps of Switzerland -- Hans Melchior, Guide: 44-year-old, he is short, broad shouldered, with large, square muscular hands. Melchior is a Mountain Guide First Class - The son of a guide and born at Pontresina, he did the many odd but hard and hardening jobs that are always open to healthy young men who are willing to work in a mountain village; He helped on farms, he was a wood cutter, he was a builder. When, at the age of 20, he was called up for his military training. This he followed up with a summer and winter guide course; then passed the very strict practical and theoretical exams. January 22, 1948. (Photo by Pictorial Press Photo).