A four-year-long defense force inquiry into the war in Afghanistan has revealed shocking crimes, including murders allegedly committed by members of the Australian military's special forces. The report detailed 39 potentially unlawful deaths, including Afghan civilians and children. The scale of wrongdoing is staggering, and it has led to a call for accountability and cultural change within the Australian Defense Force. The Chief of Army, Rick Burr, expressed his determination to hold the military accountable and rebuild trust with the Australian people. The report has also exposed whistleblowers' courage in coming forward. Kerry Stokes, the Chair of the Australian War Memorial, has offered to fund the defense of accused soldiers, creating controversy. The focus now is on justice for the Afghan families affected by these actions and the army's commitment to reform its culture and leadership.
Sure, here are the key facts extracted from the provided text:
1. A report details shocking war crimes in Afghanistan, involving alleged murders of civilians and prisoners.
2. The scandal involves up to 39 potentially unlawful deaths.
3. The defense force is deeply troubled by these actions and considers them a stain on the nation's history.
4. The army is taking accountability and aiming to rebuild trust through cultural and leadership improvements.
5. The inquiry report exposes the concealment of alleged unlawful acts and challenges the leadership's knowledge of events.
6. Whistleblowers and those who spoke up about war crimes are acknowledged and appreciated for their courage.
7. The Australian War Memorial chair, Kerry Stokes, plans to fund the defense of those accused of war crimes, sparking concerns.
8. The defense offers apologies and compensation to the Afghan families affected by the alleged war crimes.
9. The entire army is committed to addressing this issue, focusing on improving culture, leadership, and ethical behavior.
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