As a PR person, sometimes you need to be a “handler.” You are that person who ensure the individual you are overseeing for the hour, or day, has everything they need to do their job, is transported smoothly and efficiently, and is comfortable. That could mean a variety of things. Sometimes it means you have to be the “mean one” to the public as the talent you are overseeing can never, ever, be rude. If everything goes right – you don’t usually hear “thanks” because frankly, it was always supposed to go smoothly. But if something goes wrong, oh boy…you are the first in line to take the brunt of it. Somewhat a thankless job – but you do get to meet some cool people.
One of those people, for me, was R. Lee Emery, aka “The Gunny.” I first met Gunny at a Glock booth at some random NRA Member Meeting many years ago. Man, those lines were ALWAYS long. Then, in 2014, Sportsman Channel created a show called “Saving Private K-9” about military dogs finding their original owners and the host was Gunny. The network tapped Gunny for appearances – one of which was at the then-called Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show in Pennsylvania. And I was chosen as Gunny’s handler for three days. What did that mean? I transported him from the hotel to the show site each day, walked him (aka shielded him) to the booth just minutes before his appearance and watched to see if he needed anything.
Our trips back and forth, through the crowds, required special attention. His hand was on my shoulder, me in front of him a bit, almost pushing the crowds aside. Both of us always smiling, always pleasant, with me being the one to say, “I’m so sorry, but Gunny needs to get to his next appointment,” to politely move people aside. But I found if you both walked confidently, with purpose and never, ever, make eye contact with someone – you’ll get through just fine.
It was interesting to be in the car with him to/from each day. I know we talked the whole way. He liked to listen to old country music, so that’s fine. Its not really my jam, but I always had the station turned to Willy Nelson or similar. And he didn’t really like to go out to eat at night. I recall him saying how people always wanted to take him out to a steakhouse for a fancy dinner to “wine and dine” him and frankly, he just wanted something light. I mean, the guy was nearing 70 years old and eating a heavy steak at 8 pm wasn’t his cup of tea.
Gunny was always a gentleman to me. Always kind. Never assuming and yes, he took a picture with me and signed a postcard for my husband. His handshake was firm. He was genuinely interested in you, as a person. I’m sure he’s met thousands and thousands of people during these appearances over the years. Probably shaking his head at the magnitude of it all. But he was cool. I am glad I had the opportunity to spend real time with him.
Gunny, rest in my peace. - Michelle Scheuermann, editor, Archery Wire.