I remember my father watching one of those "drill sergeant" scenes on a Saturday afternoon many years ago and getting a real kick out of Ermey's portrayal. "This guy's got it down" he said.

My formative years coincided with my father's progression form Staff Sergeant through Master Gunnery Sergeant in the USMC, and he certainly had an appreciation for Ermey's work. Ermey's characters always remind me of my childhood - and I guess that's a high compliment in my book.

My brother and I had to pass inspection before attending church on Sunday mornings. A ritual that often included being tersely sent back to the ironing board to press our pants properly (even at an age when our Mom didn't want us handling an iron.) As I retreated to begrudgingly press my slacks you'd hear the old man chide "I better be able to cut butter with those creases, boys!"
My return for further inspection would often result in a "Well, the breeches can pass muster, but those shoes are a disgrace, son!" Better just put a spit shine on 'em so your momma's not late for Sunday school.

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