Booing AG Letitia James was immature and disrespectful, but FDNY leaders should have intervened

I think we can all agree that the heckling directed at Attorney General Tish James during the FDNY’s promotion ceremony last week was immature, and possibly in bad taste.

It should be noted, however, that this behavior was not new or unique to this particular event.

Just last year, the fire commissioner faced similar boos while speaking at the same promotion ceremony in the same venue.

Therefore, the department’s decision to launch an investigation and urge members to “turn themselves in” seems like a shallow attempt to save face politically.

This should not spiral into a witch hunt.

The FDNY Uniformed Firefighters Association is open to having a dialogue with the administration on how such ceremonies can be handled better in the future.

Historically, the FDNY promotion ceremony has always been a lively affair, with members letting loose and celebrating the achievements of their colleagues as they move on to new chapters in their career.

At times, it has had a festive atmosphere, resembling a carnival.

There have been instances of someone in a horse-head costume running across the stage, members bringing “fat head” posters of their peers, and random bursts of sirens or air horns breaking awkward silences.

The audience typically includes off-duty members, retired members, civilians, and the families of members.

Some members this year felt that James’ presence at the event introduced politics and expressed their discontent through jeers.

Although this behavior was inappropriate, my question is: Where were the senior officials when the chants started?

They were present, seated in prime locations, but failed to address the situation or calm the crowd with a simple command to quiet down.

If any rules were broken, it was by the leaders for a lapse in supervision.

When did the command staff notice the issue?

A memo threatening an investigation and “education” at headquarters was issued days after the event.

What occurred in the time between the ceremony and the memo?

The FDNY Uniformed Firefighters Association represents over 20,000 dedicated members who are committed to keeping our communities safe, regardless of their political affiliations.

We work together daily, supporting each other in times of need, regardless of political differences.

I extend my apologies to AG James for the incident, but we will stand up for our members, as their actions were not unprecedented, and those responsible for maintaining order failed to do so.

If the department wishes to provide a refresher on public behavior, I suggest reserving front-row seats for the chiefs, but disciplinary action should not be on the table.

Andrew Ansbro is the president of the FDNY Uniformed Firefighters Association.