Brings back old (!) memories. My one attempt (with my then girlfriend) was forty years ago. We planned to overnight in the boulderfield and then ttraverse the base of the Diamond the next morning. Overnight was OK (although we were almost blown off the mountain in our little tube tent). Second day started with a threatening t-storm, so we had to scramble off the mountain. In short, we never made the summit. Swore that next time we go the standard (cable) route before trying the interesting routes. Never has been a next time.
Still in the Navy? My entire "career" (3+ years during VietNam) was spent in Omaha(!) at SAC HQ. Don't ask.