From Foxholes to Leadership: The Unseen Legacy of CSM AC Coley
Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) AC Coley's military journey began in 1977 after a high school football recruiter challenged him to join the Army. Over the decades, he rose through the ranks to become a respected leader in elite units, including the 82nd Airborne Division. His story is now part of a new documentary series by the Black Ops Foundation, where he also serves as a board member.
Coley's career took him to some of the most demanding roles in the military. He became the senior enlisted advisor for the J-6 in Special Operations, a position that later inspired the creation of the A.C. Coley Leadership Award. This honour recognises Special Operators who show exceptional leadership.
During the Gulf War, Coley and his brother were deployed to Saudi Arabia, enduring extreme conditions and the constant threat of chemical attacks. One moment stood out: while in a foxhole, he heard Whitney Houston's National Anthem at the Super Bowl in Tampa. That song became a source of motivation and a reminder of home.
After retiring, Coley joined the Black Ops Foundation, a non-profit focused on preserving the legacies of under-represented operators. The organisation works on mentorship, representation, and honouring those who shaped military history. More about their mission can be found at blkopsfoundation.org.
Coley's impact extends beyond his service, from an award bearing his name to his work with the Black Ops Foundation. His story, along with others in the documentary series, highlights the contributions of Special Operators who often remain unrecognised. The foundation continues to support and mentor those following in their footsteps.
