Eldon Coy served in the Missouri National Guard from November 21, 1955 to September 30, 1998. During his long military career, he held positions of increasing responsibility as a non-commissioned officer, culminating with his assignment as the Brigade Command Sergeant Major for the 135th Field Artillery Brigade. He was a valued mentor to many soldiers over the years, and his untiring efforts to always place soldiers first made him the epitome of "selfless service". Coy was also active in the Shrine Club and was the recipient of the Legion of Merit and the Soldiers Medal for Heroism. Coy passed away in 2011 and is buried in Park View Memorial Gardens in Kirksville.