Cherokee County EMA Shining Spotlight on Leesburg Fire Chief Joe Sonaty

T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | Local News From the Cherokee County EMA

CENTRE, Ala. - Throughout the month of April, the Cherokee County EMA (Emergency Management Agency) is shining the spotlight on local heroes in the community.

Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is proud to shine a spotlight on the outstanding leaders who work tirelessly to protect and serve our community. Join us as we recognize the dedication, experience, and leadership of public safety professionals across Cherokee County.

Today, we are honored to highlight Leesburg Fire Chief Joe Sonaty.

Chief Joe Sonaty has dedicated nearly four decades to serving and protecting the Leesburg community. A proud member of the Leesburg Volunteer Fire Department for 38 years, he has served with distinction as Fire Chief for 18 years and previously as Assistant Chief for 8 years. His leadership, expertise, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in the department’s growth and success.

Throughout his distinguished career, Chief Sonaty has pursued extensive professional development.

He holds certifications as a Certified Firefighter I and II through the Alabama Fire College, as well as specialized certifications in:

Hazardous Materials Awareness Operations, Certified SCBA Technician, Basic Extrication, Mobile Fire Suppression Training, Emergency Vehicle Operation Training, Emergency Care Provider.

Additionally, he has completed advanced coursework through the Alabama Fire College in: Incident Command, Fire Cause and Determination, and Fire Ground Investigation.

Chief Sonaty’s expertise in emergency management is strengthened by certifications earned from the FEMA Center for Domestic Preparedness (ICS-300, ICS-400) and the FEMA Emergency Management Institute (ICS-200, IS-00200.a, IS-00800.b). He is also a Certified Storm Spotter with the National Weather Service. His specialized skills further include Chainsaw Application Training with Husqvarna and Farm Equipment Firefighting and Extrication Techniques through the Cherokee County Young Farmers Organization.

Although not originally from Alabama, Chief Sonaty moved to Leesburg at the age of 15 and quickly embraced the community and its values. He and his wife, Regina Craft Sonaty, have been married for 40 years. They are proud parents of two daughters and grandparents to three grandchildren — with “Grandpaw” being the title he cherishes most.

Beyond his contributions to the fire service, Chief Sonaty has been a committed civic leader. He served 12 years on the Leesburg Town Council, is a Certified Municipal Officer through the League of Municipalities, and oversaw both Parks and Recreation and the Leesburg Police Department during his tenure.

Chief Joe Sonaty’s enduring passion, dedication, and tireless service to the citizens of Leesburg and Cherokee County continue to set a high standard for public service. His commitment to community and public safety remains an inspiration to all who have the privilege of serving alongside him.