Law enforcement agencies from across Rockland County, along with firefighters, EMS personnel, elected officials, and community members, gathered Tuesday afternoon, October 20, for the 45th annual Brinks Memorial Ceremony on Mountainview Avenue in Nyack.

The annual ceremony honored the memory of Nyack Police Sergeant Edward O’Grady, Police Officer Waverly Brown, and Brinks security guard Peter Paige, who lost their lives during the tragic Brinks armored car robbery on October 20, 1981.

The deadly incident began with an armed robbery at the Nanuet Mall, where Paige was killed. During the suspects’ escape, Sergeant O’Grady and Officer Brown were fatally shot at a police roadblock near the New York State Thruway in Nyack.

The ceremony brought together members of Rockland County’s law enforcement community, fire departments, EMS agencies, and residents to pay tribute to the fallen heroes and recognize their ultimate sacrifice.

This year’s memorial also paid special tribute to Brinks guard Joe Trombino, who survived being shot during the 1981 robbery and later survived the 1993 World Trade Center bombing before losing his life in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Forty-five years later, the annual gathering continues to serve as a reminder that the courage, service, and sacrifice of those who lost their lives will never be forgotten.