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(Rabbi Rose Jacob presided over a poignant graveside service for Saul “Seahawk” Tocker, a well-loved FBI agent who died at 51 of cancer caused when he searched for clues in the Pentagon’s wreckage after the 9/11 terrorist attack. A religious leader who mixes humor with empathy, Rabbi Rose credits “the Erma experience” for giving her the confidence to stand beside FBI Director Christopher Wray in an uplifting celebration of Seahawk’s life. Here’s her account from the Dec. 28 funeral.)

I just wanted to share my experience from yesterday. As you know, in my line of work "stand up" has a different meaning, and the set is MUCH LONGER than 15 minutes!

I was asked to officiate at a funeral, and it had been a week of planning and working with the FBI to figure out the logistics. What was supposed to be a small family funeral became MUCH MORE once the Director of the FBI said he wanted to give the eulogy!

What an honor. What an amazing experience. I officiated at the funeral of a Jewish fallen FBI agent — a remarkable man loved by so many. FBI Director Christopher Wray flew in to give the eulogy. Men and women in uniform formed a cordon of honor along the walkway. There was a flyover by two FBI helicopters. A 21-gun salute. Honor guards from law enforcement, the park service, fire fighters, etc. Bagpipes and taps. Over 100 people in attendance.

The love for this man was palpable in the socially distanced crowd. He was only 51 and died of 9/11- related cancer. After the interment, we had a wonderful celebration of his life, with remembrances and tributes by his closest friends and family for one-and-a-half hours. The stories were humorous and touching. The FBI staff I worked with were OUTSTANDING.

Rest in Peace, Saul "Seahawk" Tocker.

Once again, the confidence I've gained through the ERMA experience let me know I could stand up in front of a group. I even spent a half hour speaking with Director Wray as we waited for the funeral to begin. (I just kept repeating to myself, You are 16 years older than the director. YOU ARE THE GROWN UP!)

After the depressing holiday season, people were so charged to celebrate this man's life.

May we all look forward to a happy and healthy New Year.

For more on the service, click here.