Ben Roberts-Smith, the Victoria Cross recipient facing allegations of war crimes, has confirmed his intention to attend Anzac Day services tomorrow. This announcement comes just one week after his release on bail, and as the nation prepares to commemorate its servicemen and women.
Veteran Community Divided
While RSL Australia has stated that all Australians, including Roberts-Smith, are welcome at Anzac Day events, his planned participation has sparked varied reactions. A spokesperson for RSL Australia emphasized the day's purpose: "to honour the service and sacrifice of past and present veterans, and to recognise that the Anzac Spirit continues to shape the nation today." National president Peter Tinley added, "Our responsibility is not only to honour the fallen, but to fiercely advocate for and support the living."
However, not all in the veteran community share this inclusive view. Some supporters of Roberts-Smith had previously vowed to boycott ceremonies in protest of his situation. Conversely, veteran Keith Payne, one of Australia's four living Victoria Cross recipients, publicly backed Roberts-Smith's right to attend, stating surprise if he were "not bloody welcome wherever he goes." A rally in support of Roberts-Smith is also scheduled for this weekend in Melbourne, though he claims no involvement.
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Historic Legal Proceedings
Roberts-Smith was charged earlier this month with five counts of alleged war crime – murder. This follows a complex, five-year investigation into the deaths of unarmed Afghan men dating back nearly 20 years. His case is considered historic, with Roberts-Smith believed to be the first Australian charged with a war crime. The legal proceedings have already involved significant attention, including a protracted defamation case bankrolled by media mogul Kerry Stokes, head of SevenWest Media. Stokes has remained publicly silent on Roberts-Smith's arrest.
A Nation's Psyche and the Anzac Spirit
The arrest and subsequent allegations against Roberts-Smith, once lauded as a national war hero, have been described as cutting "deeply to the core of the Australian psyche." His involvement in Anzac Day commemorations, a day considered "sacred" by veterans, raises questions about how the nation reconciles public perception, military honour, and legal due process.
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One veteran, in a note addressed to federal MP Bob Katter, has returned his service medals, citing the ongoing situation. The medals included the Australian Active Service Medal with East Timor clasp, International Force East Timor medal, Defence Force Service Medal, Australian National Medal, and Australian Defence Medal. Other veterans have expressed that those who reported Roberts-Smith also deserve to be heard.
Roberts-Smith himself maintains his innocence, stating he will be attending to "pay my respects" and encouraging others to do the same. He is expected to attend commemorations in Queensland.
