Lest We Forget: Peter McLean of the Canadian Expeditionary Force
MCLEAN, PETER MCKENZIE
1901-1989
2393339, Canadian Expeditionary Force
Peter McLean, eager to enlist with the 48th Highlanders on May 21, 1917, falsified his age on the attestation paper, listing his birth date as June 2, 1899, when in fact, it was June 2, 1901. He was only 16 years old. He was accepted but, probably as his youth was perceived, placed in the Service Battalion of the 48th Highlanders and was not sent overseas. He enlisted again in World War II.
On the attestation paper, he stated his birth place as Ladner, BC and his current address as R. R. #1, Puslinch. His next of kin, he listed as his mother, Margaret McLean of R. R. #1, Puslinch. Occupation – farmer. He was described as 5 foot, 5 ¾ inches in height, with a fair complexion, blue eyes and fair hair.
Private Peter McLean of the 48th Highlanders of Toronto spent the weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Duncan McLean of Badenoch. – Guelph Mercury, Morriston column, June 5, 1917.
