The Last Post Memorial Bar
If there is a physical, de-facto museum, dedicated to the life and exploits of Peter McAleese, it would be the The Last Post Memorial Bar & Don War Memorial Museum, located in Thornaby, England.
It was also Peter’s favourite pub - bar none!
The unique British military themed pub was founded by Julie Cooper, who took over the Don Pub location 2013. Beginning with a small wall of remembrance, it quickly snowballed into a massive display of militaria, uniforms, flags and other accoutrements dedicated to British military personnel through history. Today, the pub is a British icon, with regular special Veteran guest events, live music performances, and an unique atmosphere.
Having been a pub owner himself, Peter had a special affinity with the Last Post Memorial Bar. Peter regularly spoke on his military experiences at the pub in his later years, and donated many items related to his service to the many displays around the pub and museum. For his friendship and support, Julie asked Peter to be the official veteran patron of the bar, which Peter accepted with great humility. Peter continued to support Julie and her unique establishment until his final days.
Several of Peter’s personal artifacts are on display at the pub, highlighting his many years of service as a professional soldier and mercenary. The pub features it’s own branded in-house Granddad Cooper’s Lager and Smooth, and traditional British pub fare. It was additionally awarded a Community Hero award in the 2021 Great British Pubs Award.
Photo: Peter, with the founder and owner of The Last Post Memorial Bar, Julie Cooper. Their unique friendship and affiliation kept Peter connected with the community of British military veterans in his latter years.
Visit the Last Post Memorial Bar & Museum:
Cranworth St, Thornaby, Stockton-on-Tees TS17 7DR, United Kingdom