Joseph Banegas

Joseph Banegas’s induction into the Crossmen Hall of Fame recognizes his leadership, work ethic, dedication, and lasting impact on the corps during a critical era of transition and growth.

Joe began his Crossmen journey as a performing member in the trumpet section while the corps was still based in Pennsylvania. When the Crossmen moved to Texas, Joe answered the call as one of the veteran members who made the move with the corps and marched during the important 2007 transition season. As a featured soloist and experienced veteran, he helped provide leadership, stability, and continuity at a time when the organization was entering a new and uncertain chapter.

After aging out, Joe immediately gave back to the corps from the administrative side. In 2008, he joined the admin team as a Tour Assistant and quickly became Tour Director in 2009. During those early Texas years, the corps did not have the large operational teams that many organizations rely on today. Much of the responsibility for keeping the corps moving down the road rested on Joe’s shoulders. He helped coordinate housing, manage travel logistics, communicate with drivers, and move the corps into housing sites in the middle of the night.

From 2011 through 2013, Joe served as Assistant Corps Director, taking on countless responsibilities behind the scenes. He helped with fundraising, designed and printed brochures and recruitment posters, addressed the corps daily, solved staff and member issues, and continued supporting the road operations that kept the corps functioning. Whether speaking to the members or helping hook up the food truck after a late-night arrival, Joe led by example and never placed himself above the work that needed to be done.

Joe’s calm demeanor, level head, organization, and willingness to do whatever was necessary made him a dependable force during a formative period for the Texas-era Crossmen. His leadership helped establish systems, standards, and expectations that continued to influence the corps long after his time on staff.

In 2012, the Crossmen returned to DCI Finals for the first time after the move to Texas. While the production on the field became a memorable part of Crossmen history, much of the work behind the scenes was supported by Joe’s leadership. His efforts helped create the stability necessary for the members and staff to succeed.

Joe’s commitment to the corps also extended through the creation of a scholarship in honor of his grandfather, further reflecting his desire to support future members and give back to the organization that shaped him.

For his years as a marching member, his leadership during the corps’ transition to Texas, his service as Tour Assistant, Tour Director, and Assistant Corps Director, his role in building the operational foundation of the Texas-era Crossmen, and his continued commitment to supporting future members, we proudly honor Joseph Banegas as a member of the Crossmen Hall of Fame Class of 2026.