STERLING, Colo. — Chaplain Jared Sonnenberg was recognized as the 2025 Chaplain of the Year by the Rocky Mountain Police & Fire Chaplains during the organization’s annual meeting this week.

Sonnenberg, who serves the Sterling Fire Department, Sterling Police Department and Logan County Sheriff’s Office, was honored in the presence of colleagues, law enforcement officials and his family.

Sterling Fire officials praised Sonnenberg’s deep commitment to supporting first responders and his ongoing heart for service. Cpl. Danyelle Adams presented Sonnenberg with a custom-made plaque created by Sterling Fire Engineer Revord. The plaque featured badges and challenge coins from all three agencies.

"We are very proud of the work Jared does taking care of our first responders," the Sterling Fire Department said in a statement. "His heart for service is matched by few."

The RMPFC is a nonprofit organization supporting over 250 chaplains across 90 law enforcement agencies and 28 fire departments in the Rocky Mountain region. Chaplains provide emotional, spiritual and psychological support to first responders and their families, often serving as a confidential resource during times of crisis .