This past April we lost a great American. The entirety of the Marine Corps and veterans everywhere were sad to learn of the passing of Ronald Lee Ermey known for his role as Gunnery Sergeant Hartman, your Senior Drill Instructor! After his breakout performance, Ronald Lee Ermey continued to inspire us. One of his lesser-known but more intimate ventures into the veteran world was his involvement with M1 For Vets.

In their own words, M1 For Vets was...

Founded in December 2005, the M1 for Vets Project continues to provide our Nation's Combat Wounded Veterans with recognition of their service and sacrifice. We recognize them by the gift of an M1 Garand rifle.

Their recovery and rehabilitation is enhanced as the "Project" provides opportunity for them to participate in rifle marksmanship competitions at the National, State, and Local levels.

Acting out of the kindness of his own heart and genuine love for his fellow veterans, Ronald Lee Ermey came to several events. He did everything he could to make a difference from autographing raffle items, selling raffle tickets shot on the firing line with the with numerous Combat wounded veterans. Whatever he could do to help, that's who he was.There was not much media or fanfare about it, he'd just show up. To be with his brethren, his brothers his tribe. He used what influence he had to help his brethren. That's the legacy of R. Lee Ermey. Always willing to help, to find a way to do good and be an advocate for veterans. Timeless and gentlemanly, the man he portrayed on screen couldn't have been more different from the kind and compassionate man that the veterans of M1 for Vets experienced.[caption id="attachment_17857" align="aligncenter" width="604"]

R. Lee Ermey with one of M1 for Vets Directors Cpl. Neil Frustaglio (USMC ret.)[/caption]All men die, the only thing that matters is what kind of legacy we leave behind.Read more stories of American Grit:

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