Tributes pour in for Lieutenant General Sir Peter Graham, a Gordon Highlander

Remembering the life and contributions of a revered military leader and Gordon Highlander.

Tributes pour in for Lieutenant General Sir Peter Graham, a Gordon Highlander
In a heartfelt outpouring of respect and admiration, tributes have been paid to Lieutenant General Sir Peter Graham KCB, CBE, who passed away at the age of 87, just two days before the New Year.

Known affectionately as “The Tache” within the Gordon Highlanders and the broader Army community, Sir Peter’s military career spanned over four decades, beginning at the tender age of 16. His dedication to the regiment and its values left an indelible mark on those who served alongside him.

A distinguished military career

Sir Peter commanded the 1st Battalion The Gordon Highlanders during an 18-month tour in Belfast, showcasing his leadership skills in challenging environments. He served as the last Colonel of the regiment before its amalgamation with the Queen’s Own Highlanders, marking a significant transition in the regiment’s history. After 39 years of dedicated service, he retired in 1993, but his commitment to the Gordon Highlanders did not wane. Just a year later, he led the Regiment’s Farewell Parade in Duthie Park, a poignant moment that underscored his lifelong dedication.

Legacy and memorialization efforts

In a previous interview, Sir Peter expressed his unwavering loyalty to the Gordon Highlanders, stating, “I am a Gordon Highlander and I will be until the day I die.” His passion for the regiment was evident in his efforts to memorialize its history and sacrifices. Following his retirement, he became a driving force behind the establishment of the Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen, which opened in April 1997 after a successful fundraising campaign he spearheaded. This museum now stands as a testament to the regiment’s rich history and the sacrifices made by its members.

Tributes from fellow soldiers and leaders

Tributes have been pouring in from across the military community, highlighting Sir Peter’s influence and leadership. Colonel Charlie Sloan OBE, Chair of The Gordon Highlanders Regimental Trust, reflected on Sir Peter’s impact, stating, “He made us proud to be Gordon Highlanders and the self-respect that engendered was the engine for our excellence.” Major Grenville Irvine-Fortescue MBE, DL, Chairman of The Gordon Highlanders Regimental Association, described him as a “hard taskmaster” with a “charming manner” that endeared him to many. His dedication to the welfare of veterans and their families was particularly noted, showcasing his commitment beyond the battlefield.

Mr. John McLeish, chief executive of The Gordon Highlanders Museum, emphasized that Sir Peter’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations. “His memory and his legacy will endure here at St Luke’s for the benefit of future generations so that they may better understand the life of a Regiment, spanning 200 years,” he stated. As tributes continue to flow, it is clear that Sir Peter Graham’s contributions to the Gordon Highlanders and the military community will be remembered for years to come.