Brigadier General John M. “Coach” Motley Jr. Brigadier General John M. “Coach” Motley Jr. completed a 39 year career in the South Carolina Air National Guard (SCANG) when he recently retired in June 2009.

He joined the SCANG in 1970 between his freshman and sophomore year at the University of South Carolina, went to initial training during summer and fall semester, and graduated with a degree in Health & Physical Education in December 1973 from USC.

Brig. Gen. Motley served as an enlisted member with the Security Police Flight for eight years until receiving his commission as a 2nd Lieutenant at the Academy of Military Science, McGee–Tyson ANG Base in Tennessee.

He served part time as a Traditional Guard member from 1970–1973 while attending USC.

He later continued Traditional Guard service while teaching and coaching at Thomas Sumter Academy and Lower Richland High School (1974–1981).

Motley went to work full time for ANG in January 1981 and retired in November 2007.