SITE OF THE WEEK

SITE OF THE WEEK
Heroes of ground zero
By ERIC GOODWIN
KNIGHT RIDDER NEWSPAPERS
During the last year, and especially on the recent anniversary of the terrorist attacks, New York firefighters have been commended for their bravery on Sept. 11, 2001. Earlier this month, PBS aired a special that documented the way to New York firehouses responded to the tragedy. If you missed it, you can see all the details online -- the "Heroes of Ground Zero" Web site commemorates the sacrifice of the 343 members of the FDNY who gave their lives in last year's attacks (http://www.pbs.org/wnet/heroes/index.html).
"Heroes of Ground Zero" gives a glimpse into how surviving members of the FDNY are dealing with the tragedy a year later. The site's "In Their Words" section includes RealMedia video interviews with FDNY firefighters, who discuss how they're coping with the mourning process and feelings of residual anger. The firefighters also discuss how their fire companies have changed since the tragedy.
The site also includes a timeline that records the FDNY's response to the attacks. It spans the months between Sept.11, 2001, and August 2002, and shows the long-term effects the events had on the department.
"Heroes of Ground Zero" also explores the history of the FDNY. The site outlines the department's 350-year heritage and shows how it has responded to previous tragedies that have struck New York.
The site also features a primer on firefighting, including an explanation of the origins of the odd-shaped firefighter helmets and details about why fire engines are traditionally painted red.
XEric Goodwin writes Hotlink for Knight Ridder/Tribune News Service. Send him e-mail at egoodwin@krtinfo.com.