YODER – Shane Trompke, a firefighter with the Yoder Volunteer Fire Department, has been honored as Firefighter of the Year by Firefighter Ministries. 

The recognition is part of an annual award presented by the non-profit organization, which is managed by the Oregon Trail Community Foundation in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. 

Firefighter Ministries, a non-profit organization managed by the Oregon Trail Community Foundation in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, plays a critical role in assisting those impacted by fire or natural disasters. 

The organization offers temporary housing, household goods, and support for first responders, ensuring that both victims and emergency personnel have the resources they need in times of crisis.

Nominations for the awards, including Firefighter of the Year, are submitted by the community and reviewed by a committee before being presented at an annual banquet.

Trompke said that he was surprised to receive the award.

 “I’m very honored to get the award and it would not have been possible without help from the Chief and from the fire department making me into the firefighter I am,” Trompke said.  

“It’s a reflection of the hard work Shane puts in year-round. He puts a lot of work in at the station that people don’t see or recognize but taking care of the little details means the truck rolls out safely with no issues. It’s a reflection of him putting in the hard work and we’re proud of him,” Chief Justin Burkart praised Trompke.