Several months ago I contracted with a ship display builder in Greece to have a diorama made in 1/350 scale as a gift for a 90 yr old veteran. He served aboard this ship (USS Shelton DD-790) during the Korean War.

The project required some custom work to make the ship correct for the Shelton at that time (biggest change being 3 inch guns instead of quad 40mm).

It turned out quite well, and is currently in shipping (fingers crossed).

It wasn't cheap, of course, but I really would recommend this builder to anyone who may have interest in something similar.

That's very cool indeed!! There's some great detail in it too.

Wow, that is a lot of work. I won't ask what you paid, but if it was less than a monthly rental payment you got a great deal.



The Jedi Master

Well, pretty close, really. Around $1000 with shipping..

That is very good and a fine gift.

A fine gift, it looks amazing. Wouldn't say no to that on my desk.

Very nice!

The base of the display is screwed to a piece of wood, which is then encased in wood framing. Then the whole assembly gets buried in foam peanuts in a bigger box for shipping.

This goes strait to Pete, a thousand miles away from me. Hopefully it survives the trip, and he can unbox it okay..

That is a wonderful gift, Fungezap! I'm sure Pete will treasure it for all of his remaining days.

Did you pay in euros, drachmas or IOUs?

Kidding of course. Looks very nice. And it is one hell of a thoughtful gift.

Pete is dating my mother-in-law, believe it or not. He was a Naval Academy graduate in 1948, and was injured on the Shelton from a North Korean shore battery during the war. There were 12 injured, none fatal. He spent many years caring for his first wife, who had dementia. He is still able bodied and mentally sharp.

Thanks!

The first person (also in Greece) that I tried to get to do the job wanted British pounds. This builder chose US dollars. With PayPal, either way was easy to do.

Beautiful diorama and a really thoughtful gift!

I love the weathering. Subtle, but effective.

That is an absolutely awesome gift.


Wheels

I never knew they replaced the 40mm gun with a 3 inch gun. I imagine the 40 mm was obsolete as a AAA weapon after the war, but what did they use the 3 inch for? Ship to shore bombardment?

I wondered the same thing, and don't know the answer. It doesn't seem the 3 inch would be as good for AAA.

These show the original 40mm and replacement 3 inch:

Man, what a meaningful gift. You did well.

Thank you. I got to enjoy the process of see it come together..

Money well spent!