This unique plaque includes a 8 1/2" miniature replica of a US Marine
"Malemuke" sword which can be used as a letter opener. This plaque
was presented to Sheldon Leonard in appreciation for his production of the
"Gomer Pyle USMC" TV series between 1964 and 1970.
Besides appearing in over 50 movies, Sheldon Leonard (1907-1997) was an
accomplished writer, director, and producer. His TV credits included
"Make Room For Daddy" (Director/Producer), "The Danny Thomas
Show" (Director/Executive Producer), "The Real McCoys"
(Director), "The Andy Griffith Show" (Director/Executive Producer),
"The Dick Van Dyke Show" (Director/Executive Producer), "Gomer
Pyle USMC" (Director/Executive Producer), "I Spy"
(Director/Executive Producer), and several others. His Movie credits include
"It's A Wonderful Life", "Guys and Dolls", "Pocketful
of Miracles", and dozens of others.
I found this piece of memorabilia on Ebay in December 2002.