A four-year member of the Tennessee Tech football team, James “Redbone” McMillan was part of the historic Golden Eagle squad that took home four consecutive Ohio Valley Conference titles, from 1958-61, under coach Wilburn Tucker.

McMillan began his career at Tech playing at the tackle position, but a few games into his freshman season he moved over to guard, and would start every game during the rest of his TTU career.

Nicknamed “Redbone” for his tough demeanor on the field, McMillan was named All-OVC following his final season in 1961, where he a member of the fearsome “Big Four.” The “Big Four” included McMillan and TTU Hall of Fame members Lowell Smith, Dave Baxter and Rudy Schmittou, who made up the right side of the Tech line. The widely feared bunch were all named to the all-OVC Team in 1961.

With Red’s dogged blocking abilities, Tech compiled a 28-11-2 overall record, including a gaudy 22-1-1 mark in OVC play. He also helped the 1960 team reach the Tangerine Bowl.

During his time at Tennessee Tech, Red participated in the ROTC program and after graduation, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the US Army. He served out of Fort Benning, Ga., for two years and was a member of the 11^th Air Assault Test Division, which developed the concept of rapid deployment of troops via helicopters. He received a citation for outstanding leadership.

After his military service, Red moved on to his main love, which is cars. He built and modified several stock cars that won many races. In 1975, Red began to build boats and worked for a boat-building company for more than 35 years.

After graduating from Tech in 1962 with a degree in Industrial Technology, Red – who was named Mr. Tennessee Tech as a senior -- married his wife, Linnie, who was named Miss Tennessee Tech the same year. Red and Linnie had two children Tabitha and Teresa, and one grandchild.