Ben Roberts-Smith, a former SAS corporal and Victoria Cross recipient, will attend an Anzac Day service in Queensland on Saturday morning, marking his first commemoration since being criminally charged with war crimes. In a statement, he described the day as 'sacred to me and every other veteran' and expressed appreciation for support from veterans and the community.
Charges and Background
Roberts-Smith faces five charges of murder, allegedly committed while serving with the SAS in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2012. He is accused of killing unarmed, handcuffed civilians who posed no threat. He has vehemently denied the allegations, stating, 'I categorically deny all of these allegations' and expressing intent to clear his name.
Bail Conditions
Since being released on bail last week, Roberts-Smith has been living in Queensland. His bail conditions restrict him from leaving the state, except for visits to New South Wales and Western Australia for medical and legal reasons. He is also prohibited from contacting witnesses or traveling overseas.
RSL Response
The Returned and Services League (RSL) stated that Roberts-Smith is welcome at any Anzac service, as any veteran or community member would be. RSL Australia national president Peter Tinley, an SAS veteran himself, emphasized that 'the Anzac Spirit doesn't just live in history' but in the choices made today and the unity shown when coming together.
White Nationalist Rally
A group called the National Workers Alliance, whose founder describes himself as a 'white nationalist,' plans to hold a rally in support of Roberts-Smith in Melbourne on the day after Anzac Day. The rally calls for the charges to be dropped. However, a spokesperson for Roberts-Smith clarified that neither he nor his family are involved in or consulted about the rally. The group is also promoting the event alongside Fight for Australia, formerly March for Australia, which has organized anti-immigration rallies and encouraged supporters to boo Welcome to Country ceremonies at Anzac events.
