FDNY to Issue 9/11 Ribbons

March 14, 2003 -- The FDNY will begin issuing ribbons in firehouses and EMS stations around the city today, recognizing rescuers' efforts at the World Trade Center on 9/11 and honoring the memories of the 343 men the department lost.

"This has enormous significance to our people," Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta told The Post.

The inch-long ribbons are black and purple - the colors of mourning bunting - and feature the number 343 embossed in gold.