Ernest Borgnine Hails Navy Sailors

Navy NewsStand ^ | 3/10/2004 | Journalist 2nd Class Kimberly Rodgers, Navy News Service

[BykrBayb]

Story Number: NNS040310-07 Release Date: 3/10/2004 11:12:00 AM

By Journalist 2nd Class Kimberly Rodgers, Navy News Service

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Academy award-winning actor Ernest Borgnine spent time with Sailors March 9 at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C. During the visit, Borgnine shared with Sailors the influence the Navy has had on his life.

After 10 years of naval service during World War II, Borgnine, 87, said he became more responsible.

"Being here brought back so many memories," he reminisced, often overcome with emotion. "The idea of being a part of something so enormous taught me how to be a man. It gave me something to prove to myself--and to my country. I'd like to be able to do it all over again."

Borgnine, who joined the Navy in 1935, served on the now-decommisioned USS Lamberton (DD 119), reaching the rank of Chief Gunner's Mate, and went on to land the lead role in the popular television series "McHale's Navy." With more than 150 films to his credit, Borgnine received the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in the hit movie "Marty" in 1955.

"Being in his company was amazing," said Seaman Jordan Logan of U.S. Ceremonial Guard Command, Washington. "Just coming into the Navy, you get lots of advice. It always makes a difference when the advice comes from someone who's actually worn the uniform--and went on to do great things."

"I've seen so many of his movies," said Personnelman 2nd Class Jocelyn Smith of Naval Air Facility, Washington. "This is like a dream come true. He's a real class act. You get the feeling he really cares about our service."

A teary-eyed Borgnine concluded the session by saying to Sailors, "You're serving a great country. Always, always do your best."

For more news from around the fleet, visit the Navy NewsStand at www.news.navy.mil.

040308-N-2383B-007 Washington, D.C., (Mar. 8, 2004) – Acclaimed Academy Award winning actor and World War II combat veteran Chief's Gunner Mate Ernest Borgnine, stopped by the Pentagon to meet with Adm. Michael G. Mullen, Vice Chief of Naval Operations (VCNO). Mr. Borgnine is in the D.C. area to meet with military personnel and will be the Master of Ceremonies for the 2004 Lone Sailor Awards Dinner. A 1997 recipient of the award established in 1987 to honor naval service veterans who have distinguished themselves in their professions through public service and national leadership. Mr. Borgnine will present this years award to Mr. Ben Bradlee, vice president at of the Washington Post and Adm. Stansfield Turner, USN (Ret.), director of the CIA from 1997 to 1981. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Photographer's Mate Johnny Bivera. (RELEASED)

[Viking2002]

Read the interview. He's an incredible guy. I'd like to think that, 47 years from now, I'll still have the health and stamina to do what he does.

[nutmeg]

bump

[Fiddlstix]

Ping

[Monty22]

I'm just glad this wasn't a RIP thread, like I've done plenty of. Good to see an American old timer still going.

[BykrBayb]

Thanks. I have to post this one from there.

The cast of "McHale's Navy" (1962-66)

[Senator Pardek]

I thought Marty was dead

That's a fantastic film.

[Monty22]

Marty still lives on, even in the references to the factually correct Quiz-Show movie of late.

God Bless Mr Borgine.

[Tennessee_Bob]

DD 119, USS Lamberton:

[breakem]

Yes, but it's been quite awhile. I like ernie and I guess until Marty he doubted that he'd have a career.

[Senator Pardek]

That's a fantastic film.

God - that sounds so gay.

[PISANO]

So Ernie was a CHIEF........I am proud we are members of the same exclusive club.

[Stars N Stripes]

Merlin's Shop Of Mystical Wonders Episode 1003

Actors: Ernest Borgnine George Milan Bunny Summers

[Mustang]

Mega Bravo Zulu's to GMC Borgnine!

He's a primo class act!!

Mustang sends from "Malpaso News"

[MediaMole]

Ernest Borgnine is a class act.

[billhilly]

I've always loved that ugly mug with the pumpkin smile.

[Monty22]

Ahhhh, Excellent work. I forgot the ep suddenly, thanks.

[HighWheeler]

[BigSkyVic]

I alwaysloved Ernest....reminds me of my dad....(uh oh) and its nice to know there are other MST3000'rs posting! Is that a good episode?

[Mustang]

Please, stop reading my mind! :))

[skinkinthegrass]

I thought He, had died...2002. Glad he's still w/ us...so is his booking/press agents....Mchale's Navy, Escape from New York. :|

BTTT