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"It is not the critic who counts. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who at best knows achievement and who at the worst if he fails at least fails while daring greatly." —<em>T<em>heodore </em>Roosevelt</em></p>
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<em>Joseph John-Lyle Emigh </em>fit this description perfectly. Whether it was an academic, athletic, or social occasion, Joey gave it his all. Never letting a moment pass, he always lived life to the fullest. Tragically, his life was cut short in a boating accident on a lake just outside of Houston, TX. In his 23 years, Joeys life was filled with more hard work, dedication, integrity, and honor than most can dream.</p>
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Joey was the type of guy you couldn’t soon forget. His awesome physical stature appeared intimidating at first sight, but was no match for his youthful charisma and warm heart. Rarely seen without a smile, his genuine love for life could light up even the darkest of days.</p>
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Joey was the second child of his parents, George and Joanne, with one older sister, Marianne. With his parents first meeting as high school students in Fullerton, it was only fitting that it was the place where Joey spent the majority of his life. Joey attended Hermosa Drive Elementary, Ladera Vista Junior High, and Fullerton Union High School. While attending Fullerton, Joey quickly made a name for himself with his outgoing personality and fun-loving attitude. Known by older and younger classes alike, Joey was highly respected by his peers.</p>
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He excelled in three sports but football led Joey across the country to pursue his future, when he opted to play football for Army. After spending a year at the United States Military Academy Preparatory School in Ft. Monmouth, NJ, Joey moved on to West Point.</p>
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Despite being 3,000 miles from home, Joey endured the intense training and disciplined regimen of the Army while continuing to compete on the gridiron. Unfortunately, nagging injuries cut his football career short. Joey’s competitive spirit would not rest, and the following year it lead him onto the rugby field, where he played a sport he had never before participated in and rarely even watched.</p>
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Ultimately, it was rugby that afforded Joey the most success and opportunities during his years at West Point. In his three years as a rugger, Joey helped lead his team to finish in the top five in the country in each year. During those three years he was able to travel throughout the United States as well as overseas, competing in England and France.</p>
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After four grueling yet remarkable years, Joey graduated in June 2002. He was then assigned to Ft. Sill, OK, to attend the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course.</p>
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Although his service to his country was cut short, the impression Joey left on his friends and family will last forever. Those of us blessed enough to have had Joey in our lives will not forget his boyish exuberance and good nature that touched so many people. Joey was a truly genuine individual who loved his family, his friends, and his country. Joey, we love you and "Heeey, Dude," we’ll miss you.</p>
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<em>David Brookman, Braridon Rosenthal and Farshid Karamzsukh</em></p>