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Today in History: Tailhook scandal Navy Marine aviators assault 90

9/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

During the 35th Tailhook Association symposium (Sept 5-8, 1991) at the Las Vegas Hilton, U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviators were accused of assaulting roughly 90 women and men. The alleged misconduct—ranging from sexual harassment to rape—sparked a nationwide scandal that reshaped military policies on sexual assault and led to senior officer resignations.

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Story summary

During the 35th Tailhook Association symposium (Sept 5-8, 1991) at the Las Vegas Hilton, U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviators were accused of assaulting roughly 90 women and men. The alleged misconduct—ranging from sexual harassment to rape—sparked a nationwide scandal that reshaped military policies on sexual assault and led to senior officer resignations.