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 opportunities, competitions, and programs. While their goals are mutual, they come from a variety of backgrounds, bringing with them their own unique experiences for the betterment of the organization. Here, we learn a little more about the people who are helping to lead CMP into the future.
Lt. Gen. Gary H. Cheek, US Army (Retired)
Native city:
Mount Dora, Florida, although I currently reside in Pooler, Georgia.
How did you initially hear about the CMP?
I first learned about the Civilian Marksmanship Program while serving in the Pentagon as Director of the Army General 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 hired to oversee the Civilian Marksmanship Program Scholarship Program. I was the Director of the Bass Military Scholarship Program at Vanderbilt University, so the scholarship program was a good fit and an opportunity for me to continue serving.
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 like to play golf and exercise. My wife and I own an RV and 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’d say the golden rule is one I try to follow, but here’s one that has served me well: “A closed mind is the first sign of senility.”
Are there additional things we should know about you, something that is important to you, or something that you feel defines or has shaped who you are?
I have been blessed to serve 38 years in the US Army. I have learned so much from so many great people and have loved the challenges of military life. It disciplined me to learn the standards expected of me and then live up to them.
Biography:
Lt. Gen. Gary H. Cheek, US Army (Retired), (Treasurer) is a 38-year veteran of the United States Army. Notable assignments for him in the Army included Director of the Army Staff at the Pentagon, Deputy Commanding General, US Army Central Command, and as a brigade commander in Afghanistan. After his military 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 United States Army Airborne and Ranger schools. The Civilian Marksmanship Program’s focus on youth was a natural connection for General Cheek and he is honored to serve on the Board of Directors.
The Civilian Marksmanship Program is a federally chartered 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. It is dedicated to firearms safety and marksmanship training and the promotion of marksmanship competition for United States citizens. To learn more about the CMP and its programs, log on to www.TheCMP.org.