The town of North Hempstead hosted 9/11 tributes Friday while lighting up its historic Town Hall to honor those who lost their lives.

A member of Port Washington's Boy Scout Troop 7 helped usher in the tribute at Town Hall.

"It's our responsibility to make sure that generations to come are aware of what happened and that those that gave their lives must always be honored," says North Hempstead Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth.

Bosworth was joined by other Long Islanders and firefighters from the town's 18 departments.

"The pain doesn't go away. It stays. They're all brothers. We are all brothers and sisters and it's tough," says Tom McDonough, with the Port Washington Fire Department.

Town clerk Wayne Wink had the idea to light up the building.

"I think it's a spectacular reminder to people that Sept. 11 should always be on our minds and in our hearts," says Wink.

There was also a tribute held in the village of Mineola.

MORE: Remembering 9/11 20 Years Later

Mineola Mayor Scott Strauss was at ground zero in the days following 9/11. He says there were many residents who are firefighters, police officers and members of the ambulance corps. who were also down at ground zero.

"It's important for us to recognize the heroes of that day, those who continue to suffer long-term health issues and the families," says Strauss. "We need to support the families and let them know that we'll never forget."

Elected officials from across the state, local leaders and the keynote speaker Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder were also on hand to remember all those impacted by the 9/11 attacks.