On August 12th, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced the appointment of Robert S. Tucker, Esq. as the 35th Fire Commissioner of the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY). Tucker, whose career in public safety began with the FDNY in 1985, steps into his new role with extensive experience, including positions as special assistant to the Queens County district attorney and chairman of T&M Protection Resources, a leader in security solutions.
Mayor Adams expressed confidence in Tucker’s ability to lead the department, highlighting Tucker’s deep-rooted connection with the FDNY and his dedication to public safety. “His first job as a young man was with the FDNY, and I can’t think of anyone who knows this department better,” Adams remarked. He continued, “Commissioner Tucker brings decades of experience in protecting public safety to this role, as well as strong personal ties to the FDNY…I want to thank Commissioner Kavanagh for her nearly decade of service to the FDNY where she led the greatest Fire Department in the world to new heights. I am confident Commissioner Tucker will continue Commissioner Kavanagh’s legacy of success supporting our firefighters and protecting our city. New York City is grateful to have a leader with so much experience ready to take the helm at this critical moment.”
In accepting the position, Tucker emphasized the honor and responsibility of leading the FDNY. “Public safety has been my life’s work,” Tucker stated, pledging his support to the department’s firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics. He expressed confidence in the collective efforts to continue making New York City safer.
Tucker continued, “Firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and paramedics do the work that most of us only ever read about in comic books. They are heroes and they embody the best of all of us. My message to the members of the FDNY is simple: while you have New Yorkers’ backs — I’ve got yours. I know the work we will accomplish together will make this department even greater and we will make this city an even safer place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Support for Tucker’s appointment came from various city officials, including New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar and Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella. Both praised Tucker’s lifelong dedication to public safety and his qualifications for the role. Councilmember Joann Ariola also expressed optimism about Tucker’s leadership, noting the challenges the FDNY faces and her belief in Tucker’s ability to guide the department through them.
Tucker’s appointment marks a significant moment for the FDNY as it continues its mission to protect New Yorkers under new leadership, with Tucker bringing decades of experience and a strong commitment to the safety and well-being of the city’s residents.
