Investigation into War Crimes Leads to Stripping of Medals from Australian Commanders
Following a war crimes investigation, up to nine Australian commanders who served in the Afghan war have had their military awards revoked.
Defence Minister Richard Marles referred to the situation as a “national shame.”
These senior soldiers, whose identities remain confidential due to privacy laws, received notification of the decision from Marles through letters sent within the past 24 hours.
Marles presented the findings of the Brereton Report in Parliament on Sept. 12, which uncovered evidence of unlawful conduct by Australian Special Forces personnel.
According to Marles, the report identified 23 incidents involving 25 Australian personnel, including allegations of the unlawful killing of 39 individuals and mistreatment of two others.
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Marles emphasized that the findings were of a “most serious, disturbing, and consequential nature” and required a robust response.
He also noted that the decision does not tarnish the service and legacy of the majority of individuals who served in Afghanistan.
It was clarified that the action primarily targets those in command positions at various levels rather than individuals directly accused of war crimes, as separate criminal investigations are ongoing for those facing direct allegations.
Andrew Hastie, shadow minister for defence and a former soldier, also addressed Parliament regarding the inquiry, characterizing it as “painful.”
He underscored the importance of accountability and rectifying wrongdoings while expressing his concern about the lack of moral courage up the chain of command.
The president of the national Returned and Services League (RSL) expressed reservations about stripping medals before all investigations conclude, citing the strain on veterans and the mental health implications of the allegations.
Melick indicated that further comments would be reserved until the complete, unredacted Brereton Report is disclosed.
On Nov. 6, 2020, the chief of defense force received the Brereton Report, which was publicly acknowledged two weeks later. The report contained 143 recommendations, all of which the Defense Department accepted and has been actively implementing changes at various levels.
Former chief of defense force General Angus Campbell denounced the alleged behavior as disrespectful to the Afghan people and damaging to the mission’s safety.
“Such alleged behavior profoundly disrespected the trust placed in us by the Afghan people who had asked us to their country to help them. It would have devastated the lives of Afghan families and communities, causing immeasurable pain and suffering, and it would have put in jeopardy our mission and the safety of Afghan and coalition partners.”
