CMP BOARD MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS: LTG GARY CHEEK

March 14, 2023

Civilian Marksmanship Program▸The First Shot▸CMP BOARD MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS: LTG GARY CHEEK

The CMP Board of Directors is currently comprised of 9 individuals who share the same common interest: advancing marksmanship in the United States through safety, competitions and program opportunities. Though their goals are mutual, they come from an array of backgrounds – bringing with them their own unique experiences for the betterment of the organization. Here, we learn a little more about the individuals who are helping to lead CMP into the future.

LTG Gary Cheek:

Hometown:

Mount Dora, Florida, though I currently reside in Pooler, Georgia.

How did you hear about the CMP, initially?

I first learned about the Civilian Marksmanship Program while serving in the Pentagon as the Director of the Army Staff. Jerry O’Keefe was the Administrative Assistant to the Secretary of the Army, and the Civilian Marksmanship Program was one of the activities we discussed from time to time.

Why did you decide to join the CMP Board?

I was brought on board to oversee the Civilian Marksmanship Program Scholarship Program. I was the Director of the Bass Military Scholars Program at Vanderbilt University, so the scholarship program was a good fit and an opportunity for me to continue to serve.

What do you hope to achieve as a member of the CMP Board?

I really enjoy the teamwork on our board of directors and the positive interaction we have with the staff. It is my hope to help the organization make sound strategic decisions that will expand our reach and mission for many years to come.

What are some of your hobbies – exercise, movies, knitting, favorite sports teams, etc.?

I enjoy playing golf and working out. My wife and I have a motorhome, and we love to travel across the United States with our German Shorthaired Pointer, Nash. I enjoy college sports, especially the teams from the United States Military Academy at West Point (Go Army!).

What is a life motto you like to live by?

I would say the Golden Rule is one I try to live by, but here’s one that has served me well: “A closed mind is the first sign of senility.” 

Are there any additional things we should know about you – anything that’s important to you or anything that you feel defines or has shaped who you are?

I was blessed to serve 38 years in the U.S. Army. I learned so much from so many great people and loved the challenges of military life. It gave me discipline to learn standards expected of me and then to live by them.

Biography:

Lieutenant General Gary H. Cheek, U.S. Army (Retired), (Treasurer) is a 38-year veteran of the United States Army. His notable Army assignments included Director of the Army Staff in the Pentagon, Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army Central Command, and as a brigade commander in Afghanistan. After his Army career, General Cheek served as the inaugural Director of the Bass Military Scholars Program at Vanderbilt University. General Cheek is a graduate of the United States Military Academy, the School of Advanced Military Studies, the Army War College, and the U.S. Army Airborne and Ranger schools. The Civilian Marksmanship Program focus on youth was a natural connection for General Cheek and he is honored to serve on the Board of Directors.