FDNY honors Supervising Fire Marshal George E. Snyder Jr. with a plaque dedication at EMS Academy at Fort Totten

August 8, 2025

The FDNY honored Supervising Fire Marshal George E. Snyder Jr. at a plaque dedication ceremony on Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, at the EMS Academy at Fort Totten.

Supervising Fire Marshal Snyder suffered a cardiac episode after working on Aug. 9, 2024, and died a day later, on Aug. 10. He was 53 years old.

"At the FDNY, plaque dedications are tradition—a way to show respect and reverence to those who have died," FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said. "Today, we are here for George, but we know we don't need a plaque to remember him. We remember him in telling his story, about the good work he did, the people whose lives he touched, and the lasting impact he made on our great Department."

Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn said: "This plaque we dedicate today stands as a permanent tribute to a life defined by courage, integrity and service. George was more than a leader, mentor and colleague—he was a friend. My own friendship with George began back in 2009 when we were both promoted to fire marshal. That's when I first was exposed to his loud and boisterous style and, of course, that unmistakable laugh. It was the kind of laugh that could fill a room and cut through even the most stressful moments. If you knew George, you knew that laugh. It was part of his presence, both genuine and unforgettable."

SFM Snyder joined the FDNY in May 2002. After graduating from the Fire Academy, he was assigned to Engine 36 in Harlem and then transferred to Engine 47 in Morningside Heights. SFM Snyder became a fire marshal in 2009 and was promoted to the rank of supervising fire marshal in 2019. He was assigned to the Special Operations Command, where he headed up the Lithium-Ion Battery Task Force. His work included investigating lithium-ion battery fires and partnering with other agencies in enforcement. SFM Snyder was cited five times for meritorious acts throughout this 22-year career.

SFM Snyder is the 1,161st member of the FDNY to make the Supreme Sacrifice in the line of duty.