The Australian War Memorial faced a wave of dissent over its decision to keep Ben Roberts-Smith’s items on display after the Federal Court found he was a war criminal who murdered four civilians, documents reveal.
The day after the court dismissed defamation proceedings launched by the Victoria Cross recipient last month, War Memorial chair Kim Beazley confirmed it was not going to remove items on display, including Roberts-Smith’s uniform, medals and a large painting.
“The memorial assists in remembering, interpreting and understanding Australia’s experience of war and its enduring impact. This includes the causes, conduct and consequences of war,” his statement said.
Emails from the War Memorial in the immediate days before and after the decision, obtained by Crikey through a freedom of information request, reveal that staff braced themselves for blowback on their unchanged stance.
As soon as the decision was handed down, its public program assistant director Anne Bennie emailed the heads of visitor services and security to put them on alert: “With this afternoon’s news re: defamation case, can I ask that diligence occurs in the lower galleries and HoV around VC displays.”
In various emails, staff and volunteers were coached on how to deal with visitors and callers complaining about the decision. Receptions were told to tally the number of calls received and guides were instructed to “refrain from discussing their personal feelings on this topic with visitors”. They were also told to seek security in case complaints escalated.
“We can only anticipate that some visitors might become upset and vocal about his presence in the collection,” one staff email warned.
The day after the decision was handed down, War Memorial director Matt Anderson emailed the entire staff with Beazley’s public statement along with a link to its counselling service. He thanked staff and told them to look after each other.
“I want to express my sincere gratitude for your professionalism and dedication during this time. By approaching this situation with empathy for all involved, we can navigate the challenges while upholding the values we hold dear,” the email said.
Not everyone was happy with the decision. One individual emailed Anderson directly on the night of the decision to ask that Roberts-Smith’s painting be removed.
“I realise this is a difficult subject but as a veteran my PTSD has been triggered by today’s announcement,” it started. “Your predecessor felt that his VC meant that he was above question, but I hope that the AWM recognises now that the likes of Ben Roberts-Smith do mot [sic] represent the service of the many soldiers who have sacrificed much in the service of our count.”
The documents did not capture a response from Anderson.
As predicted, the War Memorial received calls complaining about its stance on the Roberts-Smith exhibit that were captured in its weekend report document. One account said a caller responded to being read the memorial’s statement by calling it “weasel words”. Another told staff they wouldn’t bring their family to visit the memorial as long as the veteran’s items were on display.
“He called the council a disgrace and said some obscenities (‘… fucking r*****s …’) unclear who this was directed towards before hanging up,” the report read.
Roberts-Smith’s lawyers have lodged an appeal against the Federal Court’s decision.
Should the War Memorial dismantle the Roberts-Smith display? Let us know your thoughts by writing to letters@crikey.com.au. Please include your full name to be considered for publication. We reserve the right to edit for length and clarity.
Correction: The original article mistakenly attributed an email to an individual. This reference has been removed.
