PHOTO: Peter (2nd row, 3rd man from the left), with other members including a large number of foreign volunteers posed in a group photo as parachute qualified members of 44 Parachute Brigade, SADF. Circa. 1981/82.

The following Confidential Report was written by F.J Bestbier, Colonel and Commander of 44 Parachute Brigade in or around 1982, assessing Peter’s reliability and professionalism as a soldier as he was mustered into the South African Defence Force:

CONFIDENTIAL

Confidential Report 80021355PP A02 P. McAleese

  1. Responsibilities - A02 McAleese is at all times prepared to accept responsibility for all tasks he undertakes and for all those working under him.

  2. Leadership - This soldier is an excellent leader of men which arises from a thoroughly adult outlook and an impressing military background.

  3. Initiative - He always used initiative and always commits himself completely to everything he is required to do

  4. Trustworthiness - We would not hesitate to inform him of the most classified material, including all operational matters. He is thoroughly trustworthy.

  5. Personality - He has an agreeable personality and gets on well with everyone.

  6. Discipline - A02 McAleese is self disciplined, and administers good discipline to his subordinate.

  7. Dress and Behaviour - He behaves like a professional soldier and is outstandingly smart.

  8. Loyalty - He is completely loyal towards the South African Army, to his superiors and his subordinates.

  9. Knowledge of Current Tasks - As a result of his wide experience and his continuing enthusiasm to learn, his military knowledge is of the highest standard.

  10. Recommendation - It is recommended that A02 McAleese is made substantive in his rank and begins his duties as such after 1 January 1982.

Signed:

JAN VAN SWART

Appointment: S01

Notes by the Commander

The Commanders are in agreement with the proposal that T/A02 McAleese is made substantive his rank with effect from 1 January 1982.

F.J BIESTBIER

F.J BESTBIER

Colonel

Commander, 44 Parachute Brigade