The late Peter McAleese (1942-2024) was a legendary Scottish professional soldier and mercenary. With a career spanning Aden, Borneo, Cyprus, Angola, Rhodesia, South Africa, Colombia and beyond, he had one of the most extensive service records of the 20th century. This website serves a memorial to one No Mean Soldier.
Please note, this website remains currently under construction. We apologize for any errors, omissions, or usability issues.
A Brief Synopsis of Peter’s Life & Career
Early Years (1942-1969)
From the mean streets of Glasgow, to the service with the Parachute Regiment, and “D” Squadron, Special Air Service. Peter’s early life and service in the British Army would define him for years to come.
Serving through combat operations in Aden, Borneo and Cyprus would be Peter’s first testing ground as a professional soldier. However, his violent temper forced his exit from Special Forces, and eventually the British Army.
Southern Africa (1976-1984)
Peter’s attempts at civilian life after his time in the British Army were short-lived. His aggression and ferocity eventually thrust him back at the “sharp-edge” - Angola, Rhodesia and South Africa of the 1970s.
Here he would encounter infamous characters such as David Stirling, “Colonel” Tony Callan, Jock Hutton, and many others, during the turbulent years of Cold War Africa. As a mercenary and special forces soldier in Africa, Peter would constantly prove his mettle.
Operation Phoenix (1989)
As depicted in the BBC Scotland’s “Killing Escobar” (2021), Peter’s career culminated in a dramatic assassination attempt on none other than Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar.
The results of “Operation Phoenix” were the climax of Peter’s career as a professional soldier - with life changing consequences.