Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Kentucky Safe

Kentucky is home to dedicated first responders who go above and beyond to keep their communities safe. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight EMTs, firefighters and police officers who are making a difference every day.

Check out five outstanding Kentucky first responders who are making an impact. And if you know a hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate a first responder for a chance to be featured in our Heroes Who Serve series on Patch!

Paramedic Matthew Kohl (Evansville) — In January 2023, Matthew Kohl, a paramedic with American Medical Response (AMR) in Evansville, was dispatched to a call where a child had been hit by a motor vehicle. Kohl was calm under pressure and provided advanced trauma care, including spinal motion restriction, oxygen, IV access and pediatric pain management, stabilizing the child who suffered multiple fractures and a head injury. He then transported the patient to a Level-II trauma center within fifteen minutes, where his care was praised as “perfect trauma care.” For his expert actions, Kohl was named a Global Medical Response Star of Life, one of the highest honors an EMS professional can receive. Read more here.

Firefighter Jordan Chaffins (Allen) — Earlier this year, firefighter Jordan Chaffins of the Allen Volunteer Fire Department waded into rising floodwaters in Floyd County to rescue a woman trapped in her Jeep Grand Cherokee. With swift waters surging around him and limited resources available, Chaffins carried the woman to safety on his back, a moment captured in a photo that touched hearts across Eastern Kentucky. Despite facing dangerous conditions without proper safety gear, Chaffins performed multiple rescues that day. He humbly credited his actions to instinct and community spirit. Read more here.

Firefighter Bryce Carden (Louisville) — In March 2024, firefighter Bryce Carden of the Louisville Fire Department rescued a woman whose semitruck was left dangling off the 2nd Street Bridge after a major crash. Carden rappelled down from the bridge and pulled the driver to safety after she had been trapped for nearly 45 minutes. The driver was taken to the hospital and released later that day. Carden’s heroic actions were honored with a special video tribute at Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby, where he received a standing ovation from the crowd. Read more here.

Sheriff Chris Flynn (Irvine) — Estill County Sheriff Chris Flynn was recognized for his outstanding dedication to animal welfare with the 2024 Humane Society of the United States Law Enforcement Award. Flynn’s commitment to stopping animal cruelty led to several arrests, the shutdown of a puppy mill and improvements at the Estill County Animal Shelter. His efforts also helped uncover broader community issues, emphasizing the connection between animal welfare and public safety. Flynn’s visible leadership inspired positive change across Estill County, and he encourages others to support local shelters by donating time and resources. Read more here.

Officer Emily Horseman (Fort Wright) — Last year, Officer Emily Horseman of the Fort Wright Police Department saved the life of an abandoned and severely abused dog. After responding to a report of an abandoned animal, Horseman found the dog in critical condition and immediately sought emergency veterinary care, personally covering the $1,800 treatment cost. She and her husband additionally fostered the dog — now named Ripley — who was able to recover well. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Kentucky to have first responders like these working tirelessly to keep us safe. If you know a local hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch!