Courage of Dutton just what our defence force needs

Defence Minister Peter Dutton displays an intestinal fortitude long overdue in these woke-threatened days. In just three weeks, culminating in a welcome reinstatement of meritorious unit citations for those who served in Afghanistan (“Dutton pulls rank on medal ban”, 19/4), he reminds us that our armed forces have a military role, protecting the nation in times of peril, rather than pursuit of the chimera of political. It was beyond belief that withdrawal of those special ser­vices medals was ever proposed as collective punishment for alleged sins of individuals — more associated with despotism rather than an Australia governed by the rule of law and with a proud military heritage. Yet, as your editorial says, it is vital that heritage is not besmirched by war crimes (“Special forces who served well deserve their citations”, 19/4). Where, after due legal process, crime be proved, it must be appropriately and, most important, individually punished.

John Kidd, Auchenflower, Qld

Peter Dutton has chosen Digger-like political courage in overruling the overzealous decree by Defence Force Chief Angus Campbell. Campbell’s decision tarnished the reputations of over 3000 defence personnel who endangered their lives to make the world a better place. Dutton’s decision was fit and proper. All military personnel owe him a debt of gratitude for looking after their backs in a political game sometimes more dangerous than engaging in battle itself.

Peter D. Surkitt, Sandringham, Vic

Nearly five months after publishing an explosive inquiry into alleged war crimes in Afghanistan committed by Australian special forces, it is becoming clear that the Canberra government has no intention of bringing any of the perpetrators to justice.

Ironically, the only person facing prosecution from the whole affair is whistleblower David McBride. The former Australian Defence Force lawyer has been charged with unlawfully disclosing classified information, which first brought the issue of war crimes to public attention. He faces up to 50 years in jail if found guilty.

Norman Broomhall, Port Macquarie, NSW

The veterans community congratulates Peter Dutton for overturning the dreadful decision to strip special forces Afghanistan veterans of their unit citations because of the alleged actions of a few. What a pity his predecessor did not challenge or overrule this group punishment and apparently there was not a single high-ranking army leader brave enough to speak out.

Brian Whybrow, Wanniassa, ACT

Peter Dutton has made what seems a very obvious but shrewd move when overturning the decision to revoke citations from more than 3000 special forces veterans. The decision to punish the many for the sins of a few made little sense and served only to raise the ire of many fair-minded people.

Frank Carroll, Moorooka, Qld

My appreciation of Peter Dutton has risen many points. His reinstatement of meritorious unit citation awards to all but the small minority who may be found guilty of war crimes is a positive move. It will help restore the morale of the thousands arbitrarily stripped of this award by General Angus Campbell’s over-reaction to the Brereton report. Scott Morrison’s announcement of a royal commission into veteran suicide is equally as timely. I am sure this decision has been influenced in large part by Dutton’s representation. In Dutton we appear to have a minister whose resoluteness is just what Defence needs.

Henry Gray, Leanyer, NT

So after years of excuses, delays and refusal, Scott Morrison has called a royal commission into the appalling state of veterans’ mental health and hopes the commission will be a “healing process”. Then he goes on to say: “The inquiry will not be about making findings of civil or criminal wrongdoing.” As a veteran I want to know how we can have healing without justice. How can we feel safe unless those who have broken laws and failed in their duties are identified and punished?

This announcement reeks of the smoke-and-mirrors approach to problems that has been a part of our government recently. Prime Minister, veterans deserve justice, veterans put their lives on the line to protect people like you, it’s time you repaid that debt.

Doug Steley, Heyfield, Vic