In honor of Thanksgiving, I asked eight National Geographic magazine staff members to share a photograph they’re thankful for having seen. Each co-worker I talked to has been on staff for more than 30 years, and has seen and worked on a great number of stories.

From this legacy, I was curious to see what images remained with them today. My esteemed colleagues shared photographs that they found inspiring, that represented technological feats, and that served as catalysts for lifelong passions and careers.

I, myself, am extremely thankful to have worked alongside so many incredible people who have given so much to this magazine—many of whom are leaving this year. I am thankful for the wealth of knowledge they have contributed