EMS Spotlight: Paramedic Justin Flannery

Justin Flannery grew up in Island City, Owsley County, and graduated from the OCHS in 2008. After high school, he spent one year in the Pre-Med Program at the University of Kentucky. Justin became a Certified Nursing Assistant in 2009 and worked at the Booneville Nursing Home. While he enjoyed his job working with the nursing home's patients and residents, he reported that he wanted a faster-paced job and to learn more about emergency medical services.

Eleven years ago, Justin trained at the Morgan County EMS Training and Education Institute in West Liberty, KY. They provide emergency medical training, including EMT courses and information on careers in EMS. In 2024, Justin pursued his training as a Paramedic. He successfully completed his Paramedic training in 2025 and serves in that capacity with the Jackson County EMS.

Justin recently received two awards for his outstanding achievement in “Response & Life Saving Action” for his response saving the life of Jackson County Sheriff Daniel Isaacs. Sheriff Isaacs experienced a medical emergency in 2025, and Justin successfully provided emergency medical services, helping save his life.

Justin’s parents are Mark and Teresa Hensley from Island Creek, Owsley County. Teresa is the daughter of Jackson County resident and DAV member, David Gray. Justin has one sister, Angela Mazurek, and one brother, Shane Byrd. Justin has two children, Carter (10 yrs old), and Piper (7 yrs old). Justin is engaged to Kearsten Connelly.

When asked what motivates him to be a leader and serve such a vital role in the community, Justin responded that he loves helping people. He said he finds it rewarding to think he has provided help and comfort on what may be someone’s worst day. Justin said, “One contact can change someone’s entire life.”