Ep 11. A Hero's Rest

In Third Watch season 2 episode 11 titled "A Hero's Rest," the viewers are introduced to the men and women of the FDNY 55 Engine in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. The entire precinct, the city, and the nation are still reeling from the devastating attack that claimed the lives of thousands. The episode is particularly poignant as it was released on December 10, 2001, just three months after the attacks.

The plot revolves around the death of a firefighter named Jimmy Doherty who has been with the 55 Engine for over a decade. Doherty had survived the attacks on the World Trade Center but died a few days later due to the toxic fumes he had inhaled. The death hits the precinct hard, and the firefighters are all struggling to come to terms with the loss of their brother.

The episode opens with Doherty's funeral, which is attended by firefighters from other precincts, police officers, and Doherty's family. The funeral is the perfect tribute to a man who gave his life in the line of duty. The ceremony is complete with a bagpipe band, a procession through the city streets, and a heartfelt eulogy from Doherty's captain, Lt. Johnson.

As the episode progresses, the focus shifts to how the firefighters of the 55 Engine are coping with the loss of their colleague. Most of them have known Doherty for several years, and his death has hit them particularly hard. The crew is trying to find the best way to pay their respects to their fallen brother. They decide to hold a memorial service where they will read out the names of all the firefighters who died in the line of duty that year.

The crew starts planning the memorial service, and we get a glimpse into the camaraderie that exists between the firefighters. We see them working together, cracking jokes, and even sharing their fears and doubts about the future. In one scene, we see two firefighters, Bosco and Sully, talking about how close they came to dying in the attacks. The conversation is a reminder of the bravery and selflessness of the first responders who put their lives on the line every day.

The memorial service is a moving tribute to all the firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The firefighters take turns reading out the names of their fallen brothers and sisters. As the names are read, we see flashbacks of the firefighters in action - putting out fires, rescuing children, and risking their lives to save others. The flashbacks serve as a reminder of what these men and women do every day. They're not just firefighters; they're heroes.

The episode ends with the firefighters of the 55 Engine raising a toast to their fallen colleague. They're still grieving, but they know that they have each other to lean on. They also know that they have a duty to continue serving their community, even in the face of tragedy.

In conclusion, Third Watch season 2 episode 11 titled "A Hero's Rest" is a moving tribute to the men and women of the FDNY 55 Engine. The episode reminds us of the selflessness and bravery of the first responders who put their lives on the line to keep us safe. It's a poignant reminder of the sacrifices that these men and women make every day. This episode is a must-watch for anyone who wants to be reminded of the bravery and heroism that exists in our communities.