Ben Roberts-Smith attends Canberra event honouring Australian troops who served in Afghanistan
Summary
Australia marked the 25th anniversary of its involvement in the Afghanistan war with a ceremony in Canberra honoring troops who served there. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the soldiers’ service, while Ben Roberts-Smith, a highly decorated soldier facing war crime allegations, also attended.Key Facts
- Australia began its military campaign in Afghanistan 25 years ago after the September 11 attacks.
- Over 35,000 Australian defence members served in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2021.
- 47 Australian personnel died and 263 were wounded during the conflict.
- Ben Roberts-Smith, awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery, faces accusations of killing unarmed prisoners but denies the claims.
- The Afghanistan war ended with the withdrawal of Australian and US troops in 2021, followed by the Taliban's return to power.
- The war caused thousands of military and civilian deaths, with lasting impacts on those involved.
- Veterans spoke about their work helping local communities, including providing education and medical aid.
- Former prime ministers and other officials attended the ceremony, alongside veterans and families.
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