SPRINGFIELD, Ohio – It's National Siblings Day and an appropriate time to take a look at the story of the Crum brothers in Ohio.
Senior Master Sgt. Justin Crum, the 178th Wing plans branch superintendent, initially joined the Air National Guard as a back-up plan to pursuing a career in engineering. As his career progressed, his back-up plan blossomed into a full-time military career in information technology.
Justin’s younger brother saw the success that he had achieved and decided to follow in his footsteps by initially enlisting in the 269th Combat Communications Squadron. Now a second lieutenant, Josh Crum serves as the quality assurance officer in charge in the 178th Communications Flight with his older brother.
“It’s awesome working with my brother,” said Josh. “Even though he doesn’t work directly under me, he makes my job easier because he’s so hardworking and knowledgeable.”
The Crum brothers enjoy serving together because they are able to support one another’s families during deployments and trips that take them away from home.
“We try to keep a family atmosphere here,” said Justin. “Having your actual family here just adds even more value.”
Justin and Josh, just four years apart, have a competitive relationship that pushes them to progress in their careers and continuously expand their skill sets.
“I always want to be better than my brother,” said Josh. “My motivation stems from his accomplishments.”
Although both brothers began their careers in different units, their paths eventually brought them back together to the 178th Wing where they continue to push one another and make a positive impact in their work centers.