Vietnam Veteran Turned Actor, R. Lee Ermey, of "Full Metal Jacket" Dies of Pneumonia

R. Lee Ermey, the actor known for his Golden Globe-nominated role as an intimidating drill sergeant in "Full Metal Jacket," died Sunday at the age of 74, according to his manager.



Ermey died from complications of pneumonia, said Bill Rogin, his manager, in a post on Twitter. CNN's calls and emails to Rogin were not returned.


Ermey played the role of the tough Gunnery Sgt. Hartman, who trains a new group of recruits in the 1987 film "Full Metal Jacket." He received a Golden Globe best supporting actor nomination in the movie directed by Stanley Kubrick.


The Vietnam veteran brought authenticity to the role after having served in the Marine Corps from 1961 to 1972. He spent two years as a drill instructor at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and rose to the rank of staff sergeant. He was medically retired for injuries in 1971 and in 2002 he received an honorary promotion to gunnery sergeant, according to a biography on his website.


"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," Rogin said in a statement issued on Facebook.


"He has also contributed many iconic and indelible characters on film that will live on forever."