God, Corps, Country... & R. Lee Ermey

[PaulG]

Gone at a young 74.  Being a Kubrick fan, this character Lee personified has stood out to me personally as one of the greatest in moviedom, cinema, silver screen etc.  Some of you who have been through boot camp can maybe attest to how realistic his portrayal is (or is not).   He's appeared in a lot of stuff but this will be his legacy.  It should be saved in the Smithsonian.  I'll miss the old codger.  Think I'll pull out the DVD tonight and watch it with the wife.  Actually she'll probably stick to the Facecrook while I watch it myself.  "This is my rifle. There are many like it, but this one is mine ...."

He was originally hired on as a consultant.  But once he read the script, he made an audition tape for Kubrick of him shouting insults at the camera while being pelted with tennis balls.  Kubrick loved it.  The rest is history, and blew open his career from occasional bit parts.  I discovered his first role was in Apocalypse Now as the chopper pilot for Big Duke (Robert Duvall).  A very small part that opened the doors for him.  I never get tired of these scenes (keep the volume down so the kiddies don't get scared)

Meet Your Drill Sergeant

The Jelly Doughnut

His TV series Lock'n'Load is for those that like blowin' shit up, while being entertained with his iconic wit, and informed at the same time.   

[TexasDave]

Sorry to see the old Gunny pass on. After watching Full Metal Jacket at the theater my first comment to the wife was the Drill Instructor was not an actor but an ex Marine DI. And so he was. He will be missed.

Dave