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Move to scrap SAS squadron delayed after Diggers’ outrage

The axing of a special forces unit at the centre of war crimes allegations has been delayed, but not cancelled, according to the Defence Minister.

Finn McHugh
NCA NewsWire
DECEMBER 7, 20201:52PM

Top Defence officials have walked back a decision to revoke bravery medals given to SAS soldiers who served in Afghanistan after a public backlash.
A plan to disband a special forces squadron at the centre of war crimes allegations has been delayed.

It comes after The Daily Telegraph reported special forces soldiers planned a mass walkout over the decision.

Defence Chief Angus Campbell said the 2 Squadron Special Air Service Regiment would be axed after the release of the damning Afghan war crimes report, which found evidence of 39 murders of Afghan civilians and prisoners by Australian special forces.

But a Defence statement on Sunday said he had requested the plan be delayed.

“In light of sensitivities related to the inquiry, the Chief of the Defence Force has requested the Chief of Army delay the activity until the implementation plan for the inquiry is fully developed,” it read.

Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said the disbanding had been delayed but not cancelled.

“My understanding from the Chief of Defence Force is that it will proceed for the reasons that the Chief of Army and the Chief of Defence Force have said,” she confirmed to reporters.

“Given the gravity of the circumstances that have led to that, I fully support it.”

A “farewell” parade to commemorate the end of the squadron was scheduled for Tuesday but has been postponed.


More than 60 soldiers threatened a walkout over the plan.Source:News Limited

Labor Defence spokesman Richard Marles conceded the decision had sparked anger but said the report’s recommendations should be implemented.

He warned Defence needed to be given space to work through its findings during “a very painful period”.

“The material that was dealt with by the Brereton report was as difficult as anything we’ve seen for our Defence Force,” he said.

“This is painful for many, many people serving in our Defence forces, but it’s really important that we face up to the terrible allegations that are contained within it.

“That’s what this investigation did. It’s really important at the end of the day that the recommendations contained in the Brereton report are ultimately implemented.”

Senator Reynolds also confirmed last week the government had expressed concern over General Campbell’s plan to revoke a meritorious unit citation, a move that could affect up to 3000 veterans.

General Campbell said last month he would request soldiers who served in Afghanistan at the time of the alleged murders be stripped of the decoration.

He said the collective award was no longer sustainable given the number of allegations levelled in the Brereton report.

But he has since bowed to public pressure, confirming no final decision has been made.