Joel Magnussen
"Show Up, Work Hard, Ask Questions, Don't Quit."—words that Joel Magnussen used to open the website he and his wife, Jennifer created, which detailed his battle with gastric cancer—words that defined the way he lived each day. Joel, NPHS Class of 1984, honor student, and record-setting athlete, received an appointment to the Coast Guard Academy. Proving leadership potential he exhibited in high school, Joel held the position of top officer at the Academy during his senior year. He served with distinction, achieving the rank of Commander and earning numerous commendations and medals throughout his 15-year career. Joel left active duty in 2000 and entered into the corporate world as senior manager in a major consulting firm. Following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001, the Coast Guard recalled him to active duty. He created D7 University, the online knowledge management system the Guard uses to share counter-terrorist information and received recognition as a Founding Member of the Department of Homeland Security. Joel's continual willingness to put the well-being of others ahead of his own, his commitment to service, his loyalty, and his courage in the face of adversity provide a lasting example of a life well-lived. His own words from the website capture his legacy:

"I hope the life I leave behind leaves something of eternal value somewhere along the line."

Inducted 2006