Father-of-two whistleblower David McBride prepares for sentencing featuring former military lawyer turned whistleblower David McBride

It was the sound of his eldest daughter’s silent crying over the phone in Australia that ultimately compelled Afghan Files whistleblower David McBride to risk jail by coming home from Europe.

Her end-of-school father-daughter dance was coming up and she wanted her dad there.

The charismatic former military lawyer from Sydney had been trying to work out his next move after sharing classified documents alleging Australian war crimes in Afghanistan with ABC journalists.

Sure enough, police were waiting for him at the airport when he tried to leave Australia again.

During a subsequent controversial trial in Canberra, hopes of defending himself by arguing he was honouring his duty to the Australian people were dashed when the judge determined he was legally bound to serve the Crown foremost.

Left with little choice other than to plead guilty, David McBride awaits sentencing, almost certain to include several years in jail.

But while the thought of being away from his children again is costing him his sleep, David McBride says as long as he has their love and respect, it’s worth it.

The former Major spoke with Community Newsroom reporter Mia Armitage on Bay FM afternoon drivetime show, The Sandpit, on his way to the Northern Rivers for a last-minute whirlwind tour sharing his story and raising funds for his family via the sale of his newly-released book, The Nature of Honour.

PIC: David McBride outside the Mullumbimby ex-services club, March 2024 (Mia Armitage)