Front Line Hero: For Oscar McQueen, EMS is a Family Matter

 Oscar McQueen started work as a certified EMT at the Jackson County Emergency Medical Service (EMS) in 1995. He worked there for several years before leaving to pursue other endeavors. The decision to leave was one he would learn to regret for many years. When an opportunity presented itself in 2012, McQueen became licensed as a Paramedic and he has been with the Jackson County EMS ever since. Although he has worked at several places in Emergency Medical Services, he always gravitates back to Jackson County. McQueen said, "This is home and where I enjoy serving the community the most. 

As a licensed Paramedic, McQueen provides emergency medical care to patients. After earning his paramedic license, McQueen pursued further training to become an EMS educator in 2014. Once he completed that training, he was promoted to Training Officer. In that position, he coordinates continuing education training for the EMTs and paramedics on staff at Jackson County EMS and teaches classes for anyone seeking to become certified as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). 

McQueen's father is from Clay County, KY and his mother is from Rockcastle County, KY. When they married, they moved to Ohio. McQueen was born in Cincinnati, OH, but his family soon moved back to the area so McQueen considers himself a native of the region. He graduated from the JCHS and later attended Eastern Kentucky University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Care. 

For Oscar working in emergency medical services isn't just a personal passion, it is a family matter. Oscar is married to Meranda McQueen (Creech) who is also a Paramedic and serves as Assistant Director at Jackson County EMS. Meranda is a native of Jackson County, and we currently reside in Gray Hawk. They have two children, Andy and Ben. Andy is currently enrolled at Eastern Kentucky University and will graduate this May with a degree in Wildlife Management. Ben will be attending Murray State University in the fall and pursuing a degree in Electromechanical Engineering. Both Andy and Ben are also EMTs and work at Jackson County EMS as they have time and are needed. 

When asked what motivates him to be a leader in the community and serve on 911, McQueen responded, "Initially, I joined McKee Fire Department and later joined Gray Hawk Fire Department, serving as a volunteer on both. While serving as a volunteer firefighter, I saw there was a need for EMTs and Paramedics in the community. After providing patient care for many years, I saw the need for training and continuing education so our providers could stay top notch in their field. I also saw the need for recruitment in our field and hoped that by offering EMT initial certification courses, we could increase the interest for our field. There will always be a need for emergency medical care and I hope to keep people interested so we always have those willing to provide that care in our community." 

Oscar McQueen, his wife Meranda, and their children represent the best of our community. Their lives are dedicated to preserving lives and serving others. Our community thanks you for everything!