R. Lee Ermey knew how to perfectly portray Gunnery Sergeant Hartman in Full Metal Jacket because he was a genuine former U.S. Marine Corps drill instructor himself. Director Stanley Kubrick allowed him to improvise most of the character's famously harsh and authentic dialogue based entirely on his real-world military experience. Credit: @cbc | History In Pictures

WWII Hero John Basilone – Marine Who Chose Battle Over Fame Did you know? Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone, a legendary WWII Marine, single-handedly held off overwhelming enemy forces at Guadalcanal, earning the Medal of Honor. Refusing fame, he re-enlisted to fight again and led the assault at Iwo Jima, where he was killed in action, earning the Navy Cross. One of the few Marines to receive both top combat honors, his story inspires courage and sacrifice. #reels #reelsfb #fbreels #reelsviral #vir