Ep 5. S1 E5 - The Star Toter

The Gene Autry Show season 1 episode 5 titled "The Star Toter" follows the adventures of Gene Autry, a singing cowboy who also doubles up as a sheriff. In this episode, Gene is tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that the famous actress, Marge Merrick, safely makes it to her destination. Marge is not just any actress; she is carrying a valuable necklace that is worth a small fortune. The necklace, which is to be presented to a governor's wife, is the largest diamond ever discovered in the state.

As usual, Gene's journey is not smooth sailing as there are several attempts to steal the necklace. The first time they are attacked, Gene manages to fend off the attackers with the help of his trusty companions, Thunder, his horse, and Pat Buttram, who plays the role of Gene's sidekick. However, the second attack catches them off-guard. During the attack, Marge is shot, but luckily, the bullet only grazes her, and she survives.

After the attack, Gene and his team take Marge to a nearby town for treatment. The doctor who treats her is a long-time friend of Gene's and they exchange pleasantries. Marge is not just another patient; she is a famous actress whom the doctor admires. Gene leaves Marge under the care of the doctor, who assures him that she will recover fully.

However, this is not to be the case. That night, there is an attempt to steal the necklace while Marge is still under the doctor's care. The thieves attack the doctor and Gene's sidekick, Pat. During the scuffle, Pat is taken captive, and the thieves use him as a bargaining chip to get the necklace.

Gene hears of Pat's capture and rushes to the rescue, only to be captured, too. The thieves demand that Gene hand over the necklace if he wants to see Pat alive. Gene, being a man of honor, cannot give up the necklace and decides to save Pat in a different way. Gene disguises himself as one of the thieves and manages to get close to Pat. When he does, he takes the thieves by surprise, and with Pat's help, they overpower them.

As they ride back on their horses towards their destination, Gene and Pat have a quiet moment to themselves. Pat comments on how he thinks Gene is the best sheriff they've ever had. Gene, being modest, asserts that he is just doing his job, and that the real stars are the ones who come to the aid of their fellow men when it is most needed.

The episode ends with Marge being awarded the medal of bravery by the governor's wife for her bravery in ensuring that the necklace does not fall into the wrong hands. At the ceremony, Gene and his team are acknowledged for their hard work in ensuring that Marge arrives safely.

Overall, "The Star Toter" is a thrilling episode that showcases Gene Autry's bravery and dedication to his job as a sheriff. The episode also highlights the importance of friendship and camaraderie in the face of adversity.