'War hero' labelled fraud
A CAIRNS man who sparked a controversy about a Jewish prayer at an Anzac Day service has been accused of being a fake war veteran.
Richard Ben Serai made headlines earlier this year when he accused the Cairns Regional Courncil and RSL of hypocrisy for not allowing a Jewish prayer at Anzac Day ceremonies.
But now, Mr Ben Serai is being investigated by the Australian New Zealand Military Imposters group, which is shocked by the audacity of the accused imposter's alleged fraud.
The group's Bill Hobson labelled Mr Ben Serai a "complete fraud" who had never served in the Australian military despite claims by the former sailor he had spent time in Vietnam in the navy.
Mr Hobson said of the hundreds of cases of "wannabe" military heroes the group had investigated Mr Ben Serai’s was a standout.
"Mr Ben Serai is a particularly offensive and arrogant case for standing there in a photograph in The Cairns Post wearing a rack of medals and dictating to the RSL how they should run their services when he is not a veteran," Mr Hobson said.
Mr Ben Serai made headlines earlier this year when he accused the Cairns Regional Council and RSL of hypocrisy for not allowing a Jewish prayer for the dead to be read at official Anzac Day ceremonies while Christian readings were allowed.
In frustration, Mr Ben Serai brought his case to The Cairns Post. But on seeing the images, Cairns RSL boss Peter Turner became suspicious of Mr Ben Serai’s right to wear the medals, including one that indicated 25 years of service.
Mr Turner confronted Mr Ben Serai on the phone and asked for an explanation.
After receiving no proof of his record, he reported him to the Federal Police as heavy penalties including jail time can be applied under the Defence Act for wearing medals if not entitled.
"He said he had proof but has so far not provided it," Mr Turner said.
"If he did serve he should be proud and validate it. The veteran community is very proud of its service and their entitlements.
"Quite often these people are trading on the courage of others."
Mr Ben Serai has in the past told The Cairns Post his records may not be able to be found as he had been involved in secret activities and was entitled to the 25-year medal as he had served in a government department he refused to name.
Mr Ben Serai could not be contacted for comment yesterday.
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Accused fake: Richard Ben Serai.
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