Mayor Eric Adams delivers heartfelt remarks at FDNY Fire Marshal Snyder Jr.'s funeral

Mayor Eric Adams addressed attendees at the funeral service of FDNY Fire Marshal George E. Snyder Jr., who served in the Special Operations Command and was a member of the FDNY’s Lithium-Ion Battery Task Force. Snyder’s passing has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and colleagues.

Mayor Adams began his remarks by acknowledging the difficulty of finding the right words during such a painful time, particularly when a mother must bury her son. He expressed his sympathy to Snyder’s family and highlighted the exceptional strength shown by Snyder’s mother during the ceremony.

Mayor Eric Adams said:

“The awkwardness of death, where you stand, what you say, how you smile, what words can you share, the uncomfortable environment that’s associated with someone’s transition from the physical to the spiritual. And it becomes more challenging when it is in the unnatural order, when a mother buries her son. There’s nothing more stinging and painful.”

“Sons are supposed to bury their moms. Mothers are not supposed to bury their sons. And you wrestle with what is the right word. How do you express your sorrow?”

“This is not just a ceremony of watching your son transition as we put him to rest. This is personal for me.”

“He served in the greatest fire department in the history of this country. And you, like other mothers, I believe this is a biblical moment. You gave us your only son. And you allowed him to go and serve and protect. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

“May God be with you. May God be with your family. May God be with the men and women of the FDNY. And may God be with America. Thank you very much.”

Mayor Adams’ heartfelt words resonated deeply with those in attendance, emphasizing the personal and collective loss experienced by the community.

Snyder’s contributions to the FDNY and his dedication to public safety were also acknowledged by Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker, who praised Snyder’s commitment and the strong support shown by his colleagues.