A soccer tournament held at Bethpage State Park Sunday paid tribute to NYPD Det. Brian Moore, the officer from Massapequa who was slain on the job earlier this month.

Players who participated in the Massapequa Soccer Tournament wore special wristbands to honor Moore. They also painted his shield number on their faces.

Moore's father, Raymond Moore, a retired NYPD sergeant himself, was on the sidelines. He didn't know anyone at the game, but he was touched that they honored his son.

"I just wanted to come down because they made this soccer tournament in Brian's honor, so the least I could do is come down and thank them for what they're doing," said the officer's father.

Organizers said it was the least they could do to honor a fallen hometown hero.

The elder Moore says he has good moments and bad as he copes with the loss of his son, whom he described as "my pal and my buddy." He says he was proud that his son had followed in his footsteps by joining the force, but now he's not sure what to think.

"I kind of wish now maybe didn't, because of what transpired," Moore told News 12. "But he loved what he did, I know he loved the job. It was just tragic what happened to him. I never thought in a million years this would happen."

Raymond Moore says he's grateful for the outpouring of support his family has received. "I just want to thank everybody for what they've done for the family, and in honor of my son Brian. Because to me, he's an American hero, and he always will be."