'Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.' put the likable, bumbling but well-meaning Mayberry resident in the world of the Marine Corps--specifically, fictional Camp Henderson in California. When the show premiered in September 1964, Sheriff Andy Taylor (Griffith) went with Gomer to his new base and watched over him in the first episode, to help get the new show off to a strong start. Gomer’s superior was the gruff, by-the-book Sergeant Vince Carter (Frank Sutton), who deservedly chewed out the private in just about every episode. But there was also an undercurrent of a father-son relationship, as Carter became a protector and guide to the sometimes clueless Gomer, whose phrases included "Shazam!"; "Gol-lee, Sergeant Carter..." and "Surprise! Surprise! Surprise!" (Gomer also had a girlfriend, singer Lou Anne Poovie, played by Elizabeth MacRae.)

In many ways, 'Gomer Pyle' was similar to 'No Time For Sergeants', a play that later became a television drama and a movie. In each version, Griffith stared as a bumpkin Southern boy who made good in the Air Force. (Ironically, a series version of “Sergeants” with Sammy Jackson playing the Griffith role of Will Stockdale failed the same season “Pyle” made its debut.)

Critics were not enamored with the show, and some questioned why 'Gomer Pyle' remained was stationed in the US at a time when thousands of soldiers were being called to duty in Vietnam. (The show never addressed the real-life war.) Viewers may have liked it that way; they enjoyed Gomer's antics and kept the show in the top ten for its entire five-year run. In 1969, Nabors decided to cancel Gomer Pyle himself, so he could star in a variety show that he felt would be a better showcase for his talents. (Nabors' deep baritone voice provided him with several hit records and was showcased occasionally on "Pyle"; it was also a regular of 'The Jim Nabors Hour', which also featured 'Gomer Pyle' regulars Frank Sutton and comic/impersonator Ronnie Schell.)

CBS cancelled Nabors in 1971, as part of the network’s efforts to modernize its programing and get rid of shows that appealed mainly to poorer, rural audiences. A final note: Although he was promoted to private first class during the series, Gomer Pyle never received another promotion from the Marine Corps--that is, until August 2001, when Marine Corps General James Jones bestowed upon Gomer (and the 71-year-old Nabors) the title of lance-corporal during a ceremony in Honolulu, Hawaii. Go figure.