R. Lee Ermey - Early Life and Military Career

Early Life and Military Career

Ronald Lee Ermey
Nickname "The Gunny"
Born (1944-03-24) March 24, 1944 (age 68)
Emporia, Kansas, United States
Allegiance United States of America
Service/branch United States Marine Corps
Years of service 1961–1972
Rank Gunnery Sergeant (Honorary)
Unit MCRD San Diego
Marine Wing Support Group 17
Battles/wars Vietnam War
Awards Meritorious Unit Commendation
Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm
Other work Actor

Born in Emporia, Kansas, Ermey enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1961. Ermey was a drill instructor at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California, and Parris Island, South Carolina from 1965 to 1967. In 1968, Ermey arrived in Vietnam where he served for 14 months with the Marine Wing Support Group 17. He then served two tours of duty in Okinawa, Japan, during which he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6) and was medically discharged in 1972 for several injuries incurred during his tours.

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