R. Lee Ermey spent 11 years in the Marine Corps, Two of which were spent as being a Drill Instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego from 1965-67. Arrived in Vietnam in 1968 spending 14 months attached to Marine Wing Support Group 17. Promoted to Staff Sergeant and was medically retired for injuries received. On May 17, 2002 he received an honorary promotion to Gunnery Sergeant (E-7) by Commandant James L. Jones, becoming the first retiree in the history of the Marines to be…