Five years ago, former Special Air Services Regiment patrol commander Ben Roberts-Smith was considered a national hero.
As Australia's most decorated living soldier, he rubbed shoulders with royalty, was a favourite on the guest speaker circuit and was awarded Father of the Year by a children's charity in 2013.
That came in the same year he left full-time service in the military with such honours as a Victoria Cross, a Medal for Gallantry and a Commendation for Distinguished Service.
