Yes, R Lee Ermey served in Vietnam.
Yes, R Lee Ermey served in Vietnam as a United States Marine Corps staff sergeant. He was deployed to Vietnam twice, from 1968 to 1969 and again in 1971. Ermey’s service in Vietnam greatly influenced his career and shaped his iconic role as Gunnery Sergeant Hartman in the film “Full Metal Jacket.”
Here are some interesting facts about R Lee Ermey’s service in Vietnam:
-
Role in the Marine Corps: Ermey enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1961 at the age of 17. He served for 11 years, reaching the rank of staff sergeant. His primary role was as a drill instructor, where he honed his skills in discipline and leadership.
-
Combat experience: During his first deployment to Vietnam in 1968, Ermey served as a helicopter crew chief. His duties involved providing aerial support to ground troops and engaging in combat missions. He was wounded twice during his service.
-
Decorations and awards: Ermey received several awards and commendations for his service in Vietnam, including the Purple Heart, as well as the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal.
-
Influence on his acting career: Ermey’s experiences and knowledge gained during his time in Vietnam greatly influenced his portrayal of military characters in movies. His attention to detail and authenticity made him one of the most renowned military advisors and actors in Hollywood.
In his own words, R Lee Ermey once said, “Being in Vietnam made me a tougher, better officer, and a better human being.” This quote highlights the profound impact his service had on his personal growth and character development.
Here is a table showcasing R Lee Ermey’s military awards and decorations:
| Medal/Award | Description |
|---|---|
| Purple Heart | Awarded for being wounded in combat |
| Good Conduct Medal | Presented for exemplary behavior and conduct |
| National Defense Service Medal | Service during periods of national emergency |
| Vietnam Service Medal | Awarded for service in the Vietnam War |
R Lee Ermey’s service in Vietnam not only shaped his military career but also influenced his subsequent success in the entertainment industry. His dedication and authenticity in portraying military characters made him an iconic figure and a celebrated veteran.
Video response to your question
In this section of the video about “Full Metal Jacket,” it highlights how R. Lee Ermey, who portrayed Gunnery Sergeant Hartman, became an iconic character. Ermey’s real-life military background as a drill instructor in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War brought a level of authenticity to the role that resonated with audiences. He worked closely with director Stanley Kubrick to ensure the film’s realism, drawing on his contacts and experiences from the war. Ermey’s dedication to his character and attention to detail significantly contributed to the film’s authenticity and the lasting impact of Hartman as a memorable and powerful character.
See more answer options
Ermey is the only Marine to be promoted after retiring. He rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant after spending 14 months in Vietnam and doing two tours in Okinawa. He was medically retired for the injuries he received during his service.
You will most likely be interested in these things as well
What did Lee Ermey do in Vietnam?
Answer will be: Along with serving as a drill instructor, Ermey was also a rifleman and repair shop mechanic throughout his time in the Corps. In 1968, he arrived in Vietnam where he served 14 months attached to Marine Wing Support Group 17. He then served in Okinawa and he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Did R Lee Ermey have a combat action ribbon?
In reply to that: Although he is primarily known for his acting, Ermey is a decorated veteran with military awards that include: Combat Action Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Good Conduct Medal with Two 3/16 bronze stars, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one 3/16 silver
What was R Lee Ermey’s rank in the Marine Corps?
The reply will be: R. Lee Ermey(1944-2018)
He rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant, and later was bestowed the honorary rank of Gunnery Sergeant by the Marine Corps, after he served 14 months in Vietnam and later did two tours in Okinawa, Japan.
How accurate is Full Metal Jacket boot camp?
Answer to this: The film creates a very disturbing and "real" picture of the Vietnam War not through historical accuracy or sensitive treatment of characters, but by presenting a compilation of situations that spanned an entire war as if they were the experiences of one set of recruits.
Where did R Lee Ermey serve?
Response will be: Ermey joined the Marine Corps in 1961, serving in aviation support before eventually becoming a drill instructor at the Recruit Depot in San Diego between 1965 and 1967. After this, he served inOkinawa, Japan, at Air Station Futenma. Did R. Lee Ermey Serve in Vietnam? In 1968, Ermey was ordered to South Vietnam with MWSG-17.
When did John Ermey go to Vietnam?
Ermey arrived in Vietnam in 1968, spending 14 months attached to Marine Wing Support Group 17, followed by 2 tours in Okinawa. He rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant and was medically retired for injuries received. Marine Corps officials confirmed to Military.com that Ermey was a Rifleman and Repair Shop Mechanic.
What was Ermey’s first job after the military?
In reply to that: 1. His first job after the military was untraditional. Ermey was medically retired from the Marine Corps and was at a loss about what to do as a civilian. He told Entertainment Weekly in a 1997 interview that he “bought a run-down bar and whorehouse” in Okinawa.
Who is Lee Ermey on ‘Mail Call’?
As a response to this: Retired Honorary Gunnery Sgt. R. Lee Ermey sits on the set of "Mail Call" (Photo courtesy of History Channel). "This is my rifle. There are many like it, but this one is mine." It’s a classic quote, lodged in the minds of countless filmgoers since 1987.
It will be interesting for you