Groundbreaking for R. Lee Ermey Avenue as the new site for a musical road playing the Marine’s Hymn, taking place on the 247th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps - November 10, 2022
Location
When completed the Musical Road will start at 10th Street West and run eastward along R. Lee Emery Avenue to Sierra Hw. in Palmdale, CA
Background
R. Lee "Gunny" Ermey was not only a decorated Marine, but he was also a tireless humanitarian. An actor, patriot, humanitarian, and most importantly, a family man, Gunny prodly and honorably serve in the United States Mariine Corps from 1961 through 1972. On April 12, 2018, he died, but he spent his last days diligently scheduling events and appearances to support and giving back to his belovd country and marines. Gunny is the ONLY MARINE to have been brought out of retirement and promoted. In 2002, Marine Corps Commandant James L. Jones advanced Ermey to E-7, Gunnery Sergeant, the rank he had become well-known for.
The cities of Pamdale and Lancaster, as well as the County of Los Angeles and CalTrans, unanimously decided to create a permenent tribute to Gunny by renaming Avenue N, a major East/West road: R. Lee Ermey Avenue. He and his family lived just off Avenue N for 24 years.
Participating at the Groundbreaking
Posting of colors by AV Young Marines, Master of Ceremonies Rick Norris, pledge of allegiance by Bart Avery, and comments from City of Palmdale Mayor Steve Hofbauer, Palmdale City Council Member Austin Bishop, General David Smith, USAF and Commander of Air Force Plant 42 and members of R. Lee Ermey's family.
