The Arve Staxrud Expedition Coalesces: Local Norwegian Experts, Sámi Guides, Experienced Sled Dogs, Reliable Reindeer, and an Ice-Worthy Vessel

Roald Amundsen had authorized Helmer Hanssen to take his three surviving South Pole Expedition sled dogs on a rescue mission to the Arctic to attempt to save the Herbert Schröder-Stranz expedition in Spitsbergen. Yet Helmer Hanssen had declined to go, citing his loyalty to Amundsen and his perception of Arve Staxrud as not being an appropriate leader for this mission. And the three South Pole expedition sled dogs, who were important to Amundsen, and whom he fervently wanted to keep with him, were being requested by Staxrud. Thus, they were unwittingly placed at the center of the controversy.