Who is R. Lee Ermey?

R. Lee Ermey, also known as "The Gunny," was a commercial actor who gained popularity for his military roles in movies and television shows. He served in the United States Marine Corps for several years before pursuing a career in acting.

Ermey is perhaps best known for his role as the drill instructor, Gunnery Sergeant Hartman, in Stanley Kubrick's 1987 film "Full Metal Jacket." He received critical acclaim for his performance and was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor.

After his breakout role in "Full Metal Jacket," Ermey went on to appear in numerous other movies and television shows, often playing tough military characters. He also became a popular commercial actor, appearing in ads for companies such as GEICO, Glock firearms, and Coors beer.

Ermey's success as an actor was rooted in his personal experiences as a Marine and his dedication to portraying military personnel accurately and respectfully on screen. He was also known for his support of the military community and frequently participated in USO tours to entertain troops stationed overseas.

Sadly, Ermey passed away in April 2018 at the age of 74. Nonetheless, his legacy as a beloved and respected military and commercial actor continues to live on.