The alleged actions of the Australian SAS during the conflict in Afghanistan remain the focus of controversy, media scrutiny and varied opinions.
Currently, negativity prevails. Predominantly, the recent portrayal of the SAS by investigative journalists has not been positive.
The objective of the new documentary, Bravery and Betrayal seeks to counter the negativity; to balance potential bias. Tell another side of the story.
In Brisbane, the Special Forces community came together to view the documentary. At its conclusion, the cinema resounded with applause.
I’m an Arts Reviewer. I’m also a former RN who worked on our state’s highly specialised Burns Unit. I’m also part of the Special Forces community. Immediate family members and a former partner have served in the SAS.
During the screening, I endeavoured to remain clinically detached and judge the completed project as I would any other film. I drifted in and out of detachment as I saw some familiar faces.
For security purposes, these former operatives are identified only by nicknames. A very Aussie touch. Previously, their identities were protected.
Afghanistan claimed many lives during and after the conflict. Those who paid the ultimate price are named and their photographs displayed.
We heard from their bereaved families. Their loved ones. Now an adult, Keegan Locke was only twelve years old when two padres knocked on the door with news of his father. His immediate words to them were, Is he injured or dead?
I recalled how I felt when I saw the Blackhawk helicopter crash on the news and learned that fifteen members of the SAS had been killed. It was my brother’s unit. On behalf of my family, I made the call to the hotline.
There was footage of military funerals with full honours. I attended one of them. As his parents spoke on screen, I relived watching his mother receive the carefully folded flag from her young son’s coffin.
One aspect this documentary drives forcefully home is the courage of these formidable warriors in an unforgiving war zone. They faced situations and accomplished outcomes few will ever comprehend.
The best of the best, these elite, secretive soldiers are highly skilled, highly trained specialists. The SAS selection process was not mentioned. The gruelling cadre course that each of them have passed whilst the majority of candidates failed and were returned to unit.
From a reviewer’s vantage point, the documentary is a powerful compilation of footage and interviews. It invokes pride.
Funded by donations, the documentary has high historical value for the future. It’s a first-hand account. A primary source. The film and its discussions has its place in the ongoing dialogue.
It’s makers are keen for additional screenings. It’s their hope that it will be picked up by a streaming channel.
For more information about Bravery & Betrayal and screening locations, visit: www.wanderingwarriors.org for details.
Image: Bravery & Betrayal (film still)
Review: Michele-Rose Boylan