Australia’s most highly decorated soldier, facing charges of war crimes related to his deployments in Afghanistan over a decade ago, publicly refuted the accusations on Sunday and expressed pride in his military service.

Ben Roberts-Smith, 47, was released on bail this week and is facing five counts of war crimes, accused of the murder of five unarmed Afghan civilians between 2009 and 2012.

Each of these charges could result in a life sentence if proven guilty.

The former corporal of the Special Air Service (SAS) has persistently rejected the claims of misconduct, which were initially brought to light by Nine Entertainment newspapers in a series of articles starting in 2018.

Addressing the press on Queensland’s Gold Coast, Roberts-Smith maintained that he operated within the established rules of engagement while in Afghanistan.

“I categorically deny all of these allegations,” he stated. “While I would have preferred these charges not be pursued, I see this as an opportunity to finally clear my name. I am proud of my service in Afghanistan.”

After more than a week in custody, Roberts-Smith was granted bail after a judge said his matter would likely take years to get to court.

Prosecutors had opposed bail on fears Roberts-Smith might try to contact witnesses.

Police have said they will allege Roberts-Smith’s victims were not taking part in hostilities at the ​time of their deaths and were detained, unarmed and under ​the control ⁠of Australian forces when killed.

In 2023, Roberts-Smith lost a defamation suit over the media ​accusations and was found on the balance of probabilities to have been involved in the murder ​of four Afghan civilians.