Statement from R. Lee Ermey’s long time manager, Bill Rogin:
It is with deep sadness that I regret to inform you all that R. Lee Ermey (“The Gunny”) passed away this morning from complications of pneumonia. He will be greatly missed by all of us. It is a terrible loss that nobody was prepared for. He has meant so much to so many people. And, it is extremely difficult to truly quantify all of the great things this man has selflessly done for, and on behalf of, our many men and women in uniform. He has also contributed many iconic and indelible characters on film that will live on forever. Gunnery Sergeant Hartman of Full Metal Jacket fame was a hard and principled man. The real R. Lee Ermey was a family man, and a kind and gentle soul. He was generous to everyone around him. And, he especially cared deeply for others in need.
There is a quote made famous in Full Metal Jacket. It’s actually the Riflemen’s Creed. “This is my rifle. There are many like it, but this one is mine.”
There are many Gunny’s, but this one was OURS. And, we will honor his memory with hope and kindness. Please support your men and women in uniform. That’s what he wanted most of all.
Semper Fi, Gunny. Godspeed.
Tags: R Lee Ermey
I learned so much from him watching Mail Call when I was growing up. He will definitely be missed. Thank you for your service Gunny
Rest in Peace Gunny Ermey. Your service will not be forgotten
You will be missed Gunny. You gave those who did not serve a little taste of the life.
Very sad news. Awesome guy.
Iconic character. True American. Will be missed by all.
I had the honor to meet him on more than one occasion. He was truly a humble and funny gentleman. Not an ounce of fake in him. We are diminished.
RIP Gunny.
RIP I’ll be there soon to guard the pearly gates with you.
Hoorah
Rest In Peace Gunny Ermey, you will not be forgotten.
Rest in peace Gunny Ermey
Tank you for your service
Rest In Peace, a great Man goes to Heaven. Thanks for Inspiration, a Hero of My Younger Days. Greetings from Germany
I met him at last year’s NRA show. What a true quality person. R.I.P. Gunny.
Old Marines never dies, just taken a step back to push forward the Young Marines. RIP Gunny.
Semper Fi Gunny
Lee
Was a great American.
A true patriot.
He is in my prayers.
I am proud to be a Marine brother of yours, Gunny! Enjoy your last Duty assignment. I hear the CO is a good guy, serve him well.
Semper Fi Gunny R. Lee Ermey.
Met him at an air show several years ago as he was grabbing lunch. Still took the time to shake everyones hand and say hello. Fantastic guy.
G.Sgt R. Lee Ermey had some of THE greatest script-lines to have ever come out of any of Hollywood’s movie-mills – “But always remember this – Marines Die – that’s what we’re here for but the Marine Corps live forever and that means, you live forever”. “You can give your heart to Jesus but your Ass belongs to the Corps”. While I will greatly miss R. Lee Ermey(but as General Patton advised us) – ‘It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men that died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived’. Thank God for R. Lee Ermey and the ability to have watched his talents in my life time. Rest easy, Sir. You’ve more than earned it….
Thank you for service GUNNERY SERGEANT. I feel a great loss knowing that you are gone. My flag is at half staff for you today..SEMPER FI MARINE
Thank you for your service GUNNERY SERGEANT. I feel a great loss knowing that you are gone. My flag is at half staff for you today..SEMPER FI MARINE
Journey well Gunny. You ARE a great American Patriot. We will all miss you.
The Crew at Blac-Rac Manufacturing
R.I.P Gunny
Semper Fi
R.I.P Gunny
REST INPEACE GUNNY.
REST IN PEACE GUNNY.