McGrath - the debris was sifted before being carted off. Whatever body parts that were found was indeed tagged and checked for DNA for identification. What wasn't found were the numerous victims that literally disintegrated when the building crumbled. Many parts were too tiny to be readily recovered. If you watch the video and see those huge clouds of dust, realize that the dust contained not only the physical elements that made up the building, but also traces of it's contents - including human remains.

Yes, you could smell the bodies for weeks after the tragedy, my brother-in-law lived with it. He said that it wasn't until the winter freeze hit that the smell started to disappear. Also remember that the fire continued to burn until late December of 2001. I live about 10 miles from the site as the crow flies. I don't really think it was bodies, but for a few days after the tragedy we could smell the fire - sort of like burning rubber.

Already pieces of the WTC have been placed in memorials in communities around the NYC area. I believe some pieces have been designated for international memorials as well.   I live on a pond here in NJ which is part of a community park. A piece of steel has been placed in a small memorial that was built in the park. My town lost 5 people which is relatively small compared to other communities.

The site is large enough to fit both new buildings and preserve the footprint of the original WTC.   That idea has been kicking around since day 1 and I would bet that it will indeed be preserved.

It is easy to blame commerce, but in reality commerce isn't the crime.    Making a living is a priority for everyone, and success is not something to be ashamed of. What is a shame is when success comes built on the toil and explotation of others.   I really do feel that we've turned a corner in some respects. Here in the NYC area I can feel a sense of community and a greater sense of helping each other since 9/11. It may sound corny, but people are being nicer to one another. I don't get the same feeling that I had when I walk around NYC before 9/11.

Sorry, I didn't mean to get on a soapbox or anything. This thread has opened up a lot of conversation, and for those of you who do not live in this area I can assure you that this type of conversation is still going on in the area and in the media.

Ron