Despite the windy and rainy weather, the R. Lee Ermey Memorial Golf Classic went ahead as planned at Bear Creek Golf Club in Dallas, Texas. The event was attended by many who come each year to celebrate the charity started by the actor known as “Gunny,” R. Lee Ermey.
Gunnery Sergeant R. Lee Ermey was a Marine, actor, golfer, cigar enthusiast, and a man who led a life of honor and service. He served in the Marine Corps for eleven years, including two years as a Drill Instructor at MCRD San Diego from 1965 to 1967. Ermey was deployed to Vietnam from 1968 to 1969 with MWSG-17 and completed two tours in Okinawa. Medically retired in 1971 as an SSgt (E-6), he received an honorary promotion to Gunnery Sergeant (E-7) from Commandant James L. Jones on May 17, 2002, becoming the first retiree in the history of the Marine Corps to be promoted.
Ermey’s acting career took off when he was cast as drill instructor GySgt Hartman in the film Full Metal Jacket. He went on to appear in over 60 films and host History Channel shows such as Mail Call and Lock n’ Load. GySgt Ermey passed away on April 17, 2018, at the age of 74 and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
“Gunny” had a deep passion for golf; for him, a round was 36 holes, with 54 holes being even better. He started this charity event to honor other military service members, which has become a beloved tradition.
R. Lee Ermey’s enduring devotion to our military and veterans was exemplified in his support of various organizations. One he annually supported was Homeless Veteran Services of Dallas, a registered 501(c)(3) organization near the Dallas VA Hospital, managed by Gunny’s friend and fellow Vietnam veteran Marine, Ken Watterson.
The R. Lee Ermey Memorial Golf Classic continues to uphold its tradition thanks to his brother, Jack Ermey, who has taken the helm. The event honors our veterans and brings together participants for a fun day of golf.
This year, the event was hosted by Guest of Honor and Tournament Host Jack Ermey, with the support of Tournament Military Chair 12th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Gene Overstreet. Their leadership ensures the event remains a cherished occasion that celebrates the legacy of R. Lee Ermey while providing support and recognition to military service members and veterans.
Iwo Jima Vet Don Graves showing off where he landed. Don was the only flame thrower in the Second Battalion that came off (Iwo Jima). There were 335 Marines going in on that day and only18 came off. Don was one of them.
