US Marine Corps

62nd Veteran of the Quarter

March 2026 / Nominated by: Ron Rowden

Philip L. Eilers enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in October 1979 and began his military service with recruit training in San Diego, California. After completing boot camp, he attended Aviation Airframes training at Naval Air Station Memphis, Tennessee, where he specialized in aircraft structural maintenance. During this time, he graduated from Airframe Structures School (A1), completed the CH-53 A/D Airframes Maintenance Course and a Corrosion Control Course, and was promoted to Private First Class (E-2).

Following technical training, Eilers was assigned to Marine Corps Air Station New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, serving with Heavy Marine Helicopter Squadron 362 (HMH-362). There, he worked in aviation maintenance supporting helicopter operations and was promoted to Lance Corporal (E-3).

In July 1981, he was reassigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 264 (HMM-264) and participated in Operation OCV-82 aboard the USS Saipan. From September 1981 through May 1982, he served aboard the USS Saipan, supporting Marine Corps aviation operations at sea.

During his time in the service, several significant world events occurred. While he was serving aboard the USS Saipan, the President of Egypt was assassinated, and his unit was tasked with helping secure the coastal waters of Egypt while the nation was in mourning. Other major events included the Beirut Barracks bombing and the conflict in Grenada.

Eilers returned to MCAS New River and continued serving with HMH-362 where he was promoted to Corporal (E-4). He was assigned and completed the Special Services Fleet Assistance Program and received a Meritorious Mast for Outstanding Performance of Duties. During this time, he also completed Chemical Warfare Training at 29 Palms, California, and Cold Weather Training above the Arctic Circle.

For his service, Eilers also received the Good Conduct Medal, Navy Sea Service Ribbon, and an Expert Rifle Badge. He was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps in May 1984.

Following his military service, Eilers remains active in supporting fellow veterans and community organizations. He is Membership Chairman and serves on the Board of Directors with Veterans of the Ozarks, a Member of Table Rock American Legion Post #637, and served as Vice President of Twin Rivers Pheasants Forever Chapter 46. He participates in fundraising, suicide prevention efforts, Honor Guard, and Color Guard activities.

Eilers and his wife, Kim, enjoy spending time with their three children and four grandchildren. In his leisure time, Phil enjoys golfing and taking his dog for walks.

Veterans are chosen by a panel of peers. To nominate a local Veteran for the Branson Bank Veteran of the Quarter, please visit: www.bransonbank.com or stop by any Branson Bank location to pick up a Nomination Form.

THE PROUD. THE STRONG. THE LOYAL. OUR VETERANS!