R. Lee Ermey
Golden Globe nominee and Boston Society of Film Critics Award Winner for Best Supporting Actor in director, Stanley Kubrick’s “Full Metal Jacket”, R. Lee Ermey, after more than 25 years in the business, is one of the most successful and talented actors in film and television today.
Ermey served 11 years active duty with the U.S. Marine Corps. He was a drill instructor for two years and also served a tour of duty in Vietnam.
Medically retired in 1971, he enrolled at the University of Manila in the Philippines where he studied drama. Francis Ford Coppola was filming “Apocalypse Now” in the area and cast Ermey in a featured role. He has since gone on to star in major movies such as "Full Metal Jacket” and “Mississippi Burning” and currently hosts the History Channel's Mail Call and Lock N’ Load with R. Lee Ermey. Ermey has also done numerous voice-over roles including “The Simpsons” and "Toy Story."
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69 Responses to “R. Lee Ermey Supports the Troops”
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lets get this done for our soldiers God best them
Hey Gunny, Yup, let’s change it. Personal opinion is two seperate departments, but hey, we know who we are. Was in the Corps from ‘66 t0 ‘70. Did a tour and an extension in ‘Nam, and left some of my parts over there, so I’m also fond of our Corpsmen, as you can imagine. I could always pronounce ” oohrah”, but was never sure of the spelling, and Websters doesn’t have it, but should. Semper Fi!
P.S. The Geico commercial is the best I’ve ever seen
I’m from a US Navy family and do in fact support this to the max.
First off I lost my cousin on the USS Indianapolis July 30, 1945 along with 880 other Sailors and US Marines including Capt McVay
2nd is PFC “Gomer Pyle USMC” which was a long running TV series of PFC Pyle
What you all didn’t know is this: PFC Gomer Pyle USMC actually
marched with actual troops from USMC some of who went to Vietnam and never came home
Jim Nabors was actually given an honorary promotion to Corporal.
So he’s now Cpl. “Gomer Pyle USMC” Cp; Jim Nabors USMC
“Gomer” has earned his right to be a military war hero.
Especially in this day.
Lt. Realing, CAP
As a very proud future marine I would like to say thank you to all the men and women who have served in the marine core and the navy and now,you heard the gunny lets geter done.oorha!
SEMPER FI IN THIS DAY IN AGE JUST Y IS THIS TAKING SOOOOOOOO LONG UUUUUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAH
RUSSELL REDDS SCHAEFER PHILLY PA
My husband actually enlisted in the Army. He wanted to join either the Navy or the Marines, but I wouldn’t let him. I said the Marines are too crazy and they almost always go into fighting first, lol. My stepfather was a Marine, and he’s proud of it. Even though my husband is an Army man, all military services deserve to be recognized individually for what they do. Every branch has an important role to play to protect our freedoms from foreign and domestic threats, and I fully support the bill. I hope the Marines get recognized. Hoorah, Semper Fi, Do or Die!
As a Navy Viet.Vet, I have already emailed both of my senators, one of whom is already a cosponsor, my support for this bill. As things happen, most of my close pals were (are) in The Corps, and passage of this great bill will in NO WAY diminish the greatness and honor of the Navy, but rather separately recognize the brave, dedicated men and women of the Marine Corps.
BTW, I met Gunny last weekend! What an event! You jarheads have probably the best spokesman available on earth, bar none!
Semper Fi to you all, and may God continue to bless you!!!!!
yea tell me about it, I cant think of any one Id rather have as the united sates marine core spokesman, he is without a doubt the best example of once a marine always a marine. I would also like to thank you for your service in one of the worst wars america has fought in.oorha!
I was never in the service, but I am a patriot and love the freedoms that I enjoy because others have answered the call. I love ALL of our Service men and women and am honored to support this worthy cause.
God Bless The Department of the Navy and Marine Corp!
I am a frormer Marine(58-62). My brother served with the Marines in the 50s, as well. My other brother was in the Navy, but served in the Marine Corps as a Corpsman in Korea. My son is currently serving as a career Marine. My daughter recently finished 2 tours in the Middle East with the Marines. And a brother-in-law recently finished 26+ years as a Marine. However, I do respect all our military branches(Dad served in the Navy in WWII on a “tin can”). But as a Marine, I never liked hearing Nayy personnel laughingly say to us that we were a “part of the Navy”, or that “we were the Navy’s nursemaids”. Most non-military people do not think, or know that the Marine Corps is a part of the Navy, and would be surprised to know so. It is time the Marine Corps was identified as in reality it is, “The Department of the Marine Corps”. If needs be, “The Department of the Navy and The Marine Corps” is still somewhat clearer than “The Department of the Navy”. Semper Fi. Once a Marine always a Marine.
wow sounds like ur house realy smells like gun oil when your family gets together lol.You must be a very proud man, proud of your son and daughter and all the others in ur family in the military, and your self you have to be the proudest man alive.Anyway I do think its abought time the marines get to officialy separate from the navy where listed as one of the five branches of the military its abought time we are separate.oorha!
I became a MARINE in 1969 and served in Vieet Nam. I’m proud of my Marine Corps and always will be! Semper Fi
Alright DevilDawgs… You heard the Gunny!!! Let’s get this done!!! OHHH RAHHH!!!!!! Let’s light those Senator’s phones up!!! Make our voices heard, like one big WAR CRY!!!
Semper FI!!!
Cpl. Jeff McGill
USMC ‘96-’00
WIREDAWG FOR LIFE!!!
Looked like it passed!
http://congress.blogs.foxnews.com/2010/05/04/house-votes-to-change-the-name-of-the-%e2%80%9cdepartment-of-the-navy%e2%80%9d/?test=latestnews
Just needs to go to the Senate now.
The men and women of the U.S. Marine Corps deserve nothing less. They are true American Heroes and deserve to be honored.
Tell ‘em, Gunny.
Hey I listened to the Gunny, and I agree completely. I was never in the service, my dad was in WWII in the Navy and he would also agree. Lets get it done. Go Navy and the best fighting men and women in the world the MARINES.
Its about time Marines, lets get done. Semper Fi. Do or Die. Oorah!P.S. Gunny you got the helm.
As a very proud former Marine I would like to say for certain I did not join the Navy!
The Marine Corps is its own Branch of the Military unequaled by the other four.
The Tradition, The Dedication, The Pride, The ESPIRIT DeCORPS! I am proud to be a name associated in the Marine Corps history , even only as a name on the rolls.
I still feel these and many and many more feelings (emotions) anytime I hear the National Anthem, or The Marine Corps Hymn.
I take pride knowing that I have raised our Nations National Standard (Flag) Many times in many places executed properly and on time!
I was priveleged enough to raise the flag on the IWO JIMA monument a few times at 2nd Bn MCRD PI. I was 17 then I’m 56 now and I still get an adreline rush and chills recalling those memories, or seeing a new young Marine performing those duties.
The Marine Corps is due it’s own recognition, however I will indeed support the Gunny in a dual full partnership, We still need a ride to the big show; its been a good partnership except for credits for 235yrs now.
Semper Fi!
As a Marine active duty 1966-1970 Viet Nam 68-69 and as a PROUD GOLD STAR FATHER OF A US MARINE I support this issue.
But why stop here? Why not just the DEPARTMENT OF THE MARINE CORPS?
We don’t need any crutches. The army did it with the Army Air Corps which eventually became the US Air Force. We’re a hell of a lot older and deeper in tradition than the Air Force.
If not now, when?
Semper Fi, Sgt. D.
oorha
Recognition is not needed…all of you who have posted know what we Marines do, and what we are made of…it is not about the recognition…it is the mission…
As much as I agree with separation, I am fine with the ways things are…
“If you can’t be one of the few and the proud you might as well be all you can be”
Buddy
GySgt USMC Ret.
To: All Senators & Congressman: Make this b=Bill a reality !
As a USMC Beirut Vet. I also support Gunny.. The Marine Corps has always been its own Branch of Service but was placed under the Navy many years ago to protect Navy personnel aboard ship… Those days are long gone and Marines are no longer needed in the crows nest to protect the ship from boarders and pirates. The Navy has their own team to do that now in the Seals. It is about time We as Marines are recognized as a stand alone Service.. No Disrespect to my Navy friends But you only give us a ride to the places we need to go to… Thanks but We are the Best of the Best.. The Few the Proud… Not everyone can be a Marine.. Semper Fi Devil Dogs…. OooooooRah…..
I agree. Marines of yesterday and today have earned the right of having equal billing with the Navy. Thanks Gunny for taking the lead and getting this started.
Semper Fi!
Alan Lockhart, Staff Sergeant of Marines (1978-1989)
As a USMC Beirut Veteran, I am happy to sign this petition and cast my support for this cause. It’s time the Marine Corps got its fair share of recognition. Semper Fidelis.
I was attached to PLT 1030,on 23 August67-31 Oct1967. Then onward to 1/1Alpha Co,during the Tet Offensive,at Hue,Khesanh,861. Just as there are 5 branches of service,Army,Air force,Navy,Coast Guard,Marines.But here the thing,they are all seperated units,with in them selves,Marine,no.We are part of the Navy.Back in 1776,okay,but times change.Except the proud history of Marines. Sempi Fi LCP USMC 1st Lieut USAF Aux
Thank you for your service. Your statement is total gibberish and makes no sense. Take an english class and then try rewriting this. Holy moley, sis you really graduate from OCS?
The Marine Corps has been “Department of the Navy” long enough. The “Mens Department” needs to be identified for all we do to keep our sailing friends afloat. There is no better time than now for our unique breed of men & women to be recognized for their contributions to the United States of America.
I served in the Army during the Viet Nam lunacy but some of my best friends were Marines. I agree with you that the Marine Corps should have equal standing with the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The Marine Corps is just as involved in our nation’s defense as any of the others, but their mission is somewhat different. They are a different branch of the military and they are and should be an equal branch rather than simply a part of the Navy.
February 27, 2010
Dear Gunny Ermey:
Great idea! You might get some support from Ron James (Ronald James Sorenson), who has lobbied Congress for years to get a Flag Resolution passed to prevent the burning and desecreation of the American Flag. He also has created a special yellow and black MIA/OON 911 Flag, Missing in Attack on Our Nation. I think he would be a great subject for Mail Call.
Ron lives in the Bronx and can be reached at 718-933-1776.
I can be reached at 914-948, 2733, Hartsdale, NY.
Steve Lipken
i disagree. it has worked since 1775. no changes are needed.
How can anyone say it more eloquently than Msgt George Sidler did? There were times during my career (and I served 7 of my 20 years attached to Navy units) that I felt the Marine Corps should be a Department in and of itself. But at this point, I’ll settle to be mentioned as a Department along side the Navy and not UNDER the Navy. I respect my fellow sailors I served with, but let’s face it, even the Navy will admit, that it is the Marines who are the first to hit the beach, or in today’s Marine Corps, the first to be helo’d into a combat zone.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers / Sisters Eternally.
Dear Gunny,
Semper Fi from the proud son of USMC Msgt Harold R. Knapp (WWII Pearl Harbor) who taught me to always support our service personnal and to be proud of our country and traditions. Thank you for your service, Sir. May God bless you, your family, and the United States Marine Corps!!!
Where does this place the Marine Corps Regarding Financing, etc. If this means we will be just a line item in the Navy’s budget, I’m not sure it’s a good idea.
More information is needed
We always have been a “line item”. Where have you been?
Folks,
After twenty-six years of serving in the Corps (now retired), I STILL get chills when I hear either the National Anthem or the Marine Corps Hymn… not to mention placing myself at as rigid a form of attention as I am able.
The Marine Corps means a lot of things to a lot of people in this country. Fortunately, it is almost always for good, and right, and justice and cause. It is an organization made from the very finest of our national fiber; an organization not likely to fade, or to run. It has never shrunk from its responsibilities, neither has it ever turned from what had to be done. It has always been THE force to reckon with -throughout the world. And, as such, has been recognized, throughout the world, as the premier Force in Readiness.
So, why then should this recognition even be debated, or argued? What we as Marines are asking for is to be recognized for all the good, and all the right reasons. From the troops that stand always at the ready, always at the front lines, to the Mothers that wait their arrival home, only to be served notice that the “Department of the NAVY” (exclusively) bids you condolence and sympathy, as if the Marine Corps had no vested interest, no hole in their heart to even be mentioned as part of their child’s life. The Marine Corps that will always remain “Feet Dry!”
This change IS important. Likewise, it is important that each of you not wait for something (or someone) else to make the first move; like the Marine Corps itself… be First to Fight.
Semper Fidelis.
MSgt (Ret) George A. Sidler*
Ooh Rah, Semper Fi George!!! You should have been a speech writer for the CMC!
Ooh Rah! Standing with you George, Gunny and others. After two centuries of unwavering loyalty, dedication and blood. Changing the letter head is not too much ask for.
My Congressman supports the House Bill and I just wrote both my Senators asking them to support it.
God, country and Corps.
Semper Fidelis,
MSgt (Ret) Roger Lalik
1967-1987
RVN ‘69, 1st MAW
Wow. I had no idea that the Marines were NOT formally recognized. I’m an Air Force vet myself, but as a veteran, I stand with all Marines, and Gunny in this endeavor. Thank you for sending me this informative e-mail. I will share it with my friends and family. God bless our military, and Gunny.
It’s not just a “Marine thing,” as you so clearly stated, Andrew. Now, it’s time to ensure that some of the folks that wish to stand atop of Davy Jones’ Locker and preach “tradition” look hard into their souls for the correct response!
My thoughts…
George Sidler*
OOOOOhhhh_RAH The Gunny has his s–t together,and Jorgenson had it right everytime. The Marine Corps is in the MENS dept of the navy. Stand up and speak out…..Go Gunny.
I support ya Gunny
Have already sent e-mails to both my Senators to get their position on Senate bill S.504. Also requested they both pass this bill. I have a son in the Marine Corp and another son who wants to be a Marine upon graduation from high school.
Keep us all posted
We all appreciate your efforts and others to make this happen
Semper Fi
This issue has been long overlooked, proper recognition should be given. I have nothing but respect for the men and women in uniform, they have worked hard and sacraficed everything for our freedom and our way of life. I believe this small but important change is necessary to give the Marines the recognition they deserve. I support the Gunny in his mission, Good luck.
As the cousin of and future brother in-law of a Marine, I’m behind this 100%!
OUTSTANDING! Gunnery Sargeant R.Lee Ermey has my vote! Semper Fi to ALL Marines,Past,Present and Future!
I’m a former US Army Infantry Staff Sergeant and I have more friends that are Marines than I do that are from the Army.
I’m all for telling the Navy to stuff it where the sun doesn’t shine and create a completely separate branch of service for the Marines. That would give us five main branches of service, each independently recognized (Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard).
Ooh-Rah and Semper Fidelis to all my Marine buddies out there!
21 years in and now retired. The Marines have recognition regardless of what department their in. Like we all heard, the Marines are a department of the Navy…the mens department. Don’t waste your time on wording, the proof is in the pudding.
I fully support the need to correct the identification situation regarding those who serve in the U.S. Marines
I support this petition to remedy the identity properly of men and women serving in the U.S. Marine Corps.
My youngest son graduated from MCRD in May 2009. He’ll be deploying to Afghanistan next month. Prior to his enlistment, I had very little knowledge about the military in general or the USMC. My family has a great lineage of serving our country, but it took my son enlisting to spur me into action. I support the USMC and our troops 100%. Don’t be lulled into complacency by the media…read up, stand up, speak up for our sons, daughters and military personnel. They are what make this country great! Because of them, we are free. I’m proud to be an American, proud of my son, and proud of all those who served and sacrificed. Please, please, please support our Marines!
I’m a mom of 3 U.S. Marines (2 in Afghanistan presently and one a new Combat videographer), My dad was a 21 yr vet doing 2 tours in Viet Nam-he met Gunny, my brother and My grandad in WWII plus various and sundry other cousins, in-laws etc and Marines I’ve adopted or who’ve adopted me. Down to the very last man they all respect the other services but wud like to be recognized as an entity of their own. The budgets there and they’ve earned the right by the jobs they’ve done and are still doing an awesome job and are the toughest branch of the servive as well as the sharpest looking (u can’t beat them Blues) I’m supporting this present move for the name change hoping it leads to the recognition they deserve of standing alone. I support the USMC. 100% and I’m proud of every last Marine out there! Even dying of Cancer my dad thot of “his” Corp and what he hoped for knowing at least one of his grandsons wud go in and actually my 3 and one of my bros enlisted. For them and those to come they’ve earned the rt to stand alone. Thx Gunny. Semper Fi , Stacy (Mama)Thornhill
I stepped on the yellow foot prints in March 1966. There to greet me was none other than Cpl. R. L. Ermey. He scared the hell out of me. His training kept me alive in the Nam though. I agree with the Gunny on renaming the Dept of the Navy.
Semper Fi
Semper Fi marines what is the world coming too I support the gunny all the way what are they thinking
dennis was in corps from 1967 to 1971 I support the gunny Semper Fi.
As a former ‘Recruit’ in platoon 3029, June 2, 1966 with R. Lee Ermey as my Drill Instructor, I agree with him on this issue and would like everyone to know that I respect the “Gunny” and appreciate the training I received for my ‘visit’ to Vietnam. As a member of the Marine Corps League, I believe the Marine Corps shold be recognized as a seperate Department rather than ‘part’ of the Navy. Semper Fi!
I respect all military branch’s, but feel strongly that we, Marines need to be recognized unto our own, it would be good for the morale of the finest fighting man/woman in the world. Semper Fi.
When I was in, we had approx. 186,000 Marines. We could go in to places and it would not considered an act of war. Will this effect that status. I’m all for recognition due to the Corps, but I don’t want it to effect the overall mission of the Marines. Semper Fi.
I support the Gunny………….
Hey, I just hopped over to your site via StumbleUpon. Not somthing I would normally read, but I liked your thoughts none the less. Thanks for making something worth reading.