Calls for Unofficial 'BRS Day' on ANZAC Day Amidst Controversy Over SAS Hero's Bail
Pauline Hanson calls for ANZAC Day to be an unofficial BRS Day to honour the fallen SAS hero now facing war crime murder charges - as Australia reacts to him being set free on bail
Mail Online
Image: Mail Online
Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, has urged Australians to honor Ben Roberts-Smith, a former SAS soldier facing war crime charges, by designating ANZAC Day as an unofficial 'BRS Day.' Roberts-Smith was granted bail after being accused of murdering unarmed Afghan prisoners between 2009 and 2012, leading to mixed reactions from the public.
- 01Ben Roberts-Smith, a Victoria Cross recipient, has been granted bail after facing serious war crime charges.
- 02Pauline Hanson has called for ANZAC Day to be observed in support of Roberts-Smith, sparking public debate.
- 03Roberts-Smith is accused of murdering five Afghans during his service between 2009 and 2012.
- 04His bail conditions include travel restrictions and a $250,000 surety.
- 05Public reactions to Hanson's call have been divided, with many opposing the politicization of ANZAC Day.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Ben Roberts-Smith, a former Australian Special Air Service (SAS) soldier and Victoria Cross recipient, was granted bail on April 14, 2023, after being charged with five counts of 'war crime - murder' related to alleged incidents in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2012. Following his release, Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, called for Australians to attend ANZAC Day services in support of Roberts-Smith, suggesting it be informally recognized as 'BRS Day.' This statement has led to a polarized response from the public, with some supporting her call while others criticized the idea of linking ANZAC Day to a single soldier's legal troubles. Roberts-Smith's bail conditions include restrictions on travel, surrendering his passport, and regular reporting to police. He is scheduled to appear in court again on June 5, and the prosecution plans to present its evidence by the end of July. The charges against him stem from a five-year investigation by the Australian Federal Police and the Office of the Special Investigator, following a series of allegations published in 2018. Each charge carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, and Roberts-Smith has consistently denied any unlawful actions.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Roberts-Smith's case raises significant questions about military accountability and the perception of veterans in Australia, impacting public sentiment on ANZAC Day observances.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Should ANZAC Day be used to support individuals facing legal charges?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.



