Staff Sergeant Joshua Wagner is a native of Crete, Illinois. He earned a bachelor’s degree in music performance from Illinois State University in 2011 where he studied with Dr. Joe Neisler, and a master’s degree in music performance from the University of New Mexico in 2013 where he studied with Prof. JD Shaw. 

SSgt Wagner enlisted in the Marine Corps in July of 2014. After completing recruit and combat training in November 2014, Private First Class Wagner reported to the Marine Detachment, Naval School of Music in Virginia Beach where he received further horn instruction from Staff Sergeant Zachary Wills.  

Following graduation from the Naval School of Music in April 2015, Lance Corporal Wagner reported to Marine Corps Base Quantico in Quantico, Virginia as a French horn instrumentalist for the Quantico Marine Corps Band. He performed in the concert band, ceremonial band, brass quintet, horn quartet, and barber shop quartet.  During this tour he was promoted to Corporal and Sergeant. 

In February of 2018, Sergeant Wagner reported back to the Naval School of Music in Virginia Beach to serve as the French horn instructor. He also served in the school’s academics division, teaching music theory and ear training. In 2020, Sergeant Wagner was recognized as the Junior Instructor of the Year for both the Naval School of Music and the Center for Service Support. During this tour, he was promoted to Staff Sergeant. 

In January of 2022, Staff Sergeant Wagner attended the Unit Leader Course at the Naval School of Music where he developed skills in advanced music theory, arranging, rehearsal techniques, conducting, and drum majoring.  

In August of 2022, SSgt Wagner reported to Marine Forces Reserve Band in New Orleans, Louisiana where he is currently serving as the acting Drum Major and French horn instrumentalist. His personal awards include: Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (second award), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and Good Conduct Medal (second award).