The U.S. Navy on Thursday revoked the honorary chief petty officer rank it had granted Bill Cosby, the latest backlash against the comedian from allegations that he drugged and sexually assaulted nearly two dozen women in incidents dating back decades.
“The Navy is taking this action because allegations against Mr. Cosby are very serious and are in conflict with the Navy's core values of honor, courage and commitment,” the Navy said in a statement.
Cosby received the honorary rank from Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Rick West during a 2011 ceremony in Washington.
Cosby served in the Navy for four years starting in 1956 and was honorably discharged as a 3rd Class petty officer. Cosby used his GI Bill benefits to attend Temple University, becoming one of its most famous former students. On Monday, Cosby resigned from the university’s board.
NBC and Netflix canceled projects with Cosby in the wake of the allegations.