To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.

On a sunny but cold Tuesday morning, thousands of firefighters stood with the family of probationary fire fighter Jamel Sears outside Harlem’s Bethel Gospel Assembly, to ease the pain during the man’s funeral.

"He was more than one person, because he did so much for so many with a heart that was overflowing with love and loyalty for country and family, to people," said FDNY Chaplain Joseph Potasnik.

Last week, Sears, 33, collapsed at the fire department's academy on Randall's island, just after completing an 18-minute drill carrying 100 pounds of equipment. He was rushed to the hospital but died the next day.

Cameras were not allowed inside the church for the service, but microphones picked up the words of mourners.

"What stood out about him wasn't lightning speed, it wasn’t superhuman strength. It was an incredible commitment to become the best firefighter possible," said Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

"As I watched him work, I was truly inspired by him,” said Alexander Couch of FDNY Engine 318. “I have been on five years. It’s great to see someone come on with that sort of enthusiasm. It is sad that we lost him, but his memory will stay with us."

Sears's academy classmates said he was a hard worker and true leader who enjoyed having a good laugh.

Others described Sears as real city boy who lived in the Bronx, who attended All Hallows High School and Bronx Community College. Friends and family say for years he dreamed of becoming one of the city's bravest. In July, he made it into the fire academy.

“Although he was still in training, Jamel was already a firefighter in his heart. He had already thrown himself in to the job,” said Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta.

Sears, who was also a U.S. Navy veteran, leaves behind his wife, who is a Bronx police officer, his 11-year-old son and 7-year-old daughter.