The sound of bagpipes filled the air Thursday as hundreds of people honored the life of Trooper Patrick Hogan, a military veteran and longtime New York state trooper who was called a hero of 9/11.

The Rensselaer County resident died at the age of 61 last Thursday after battling a Sept. 11, 2001-related illness.

Hogan answered the call and rushed to New York City to assist with search-and-rescue efforts at the World Trade Center site. Those who knew him said the most important things to him were God, family and country.

The Marine Corps veteran dedicated his life to serving and protecting others. It was a patriotic farewell as hundreds of family, friends and colleagues gathered to remember and pay tribute to Hogan, a beloved brother, husband and father of three children.

“Pat was both a patriot and a man of faith, and he wore our uniform and the United States Marine Corps’ uniform with pride,” New York State Police Superintendent Steven Nigrelli said.

Hogan served with the state police for 22 years, and in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attack, he was on the front-line aiding efforts at the World Trade Center.

Nigrelli said his bravery will never be forgotten.

"When others ran away from the tower, he rushed towards it. And for his multiple deployments down in New York City, he put himself in harm's way for people he never met. You can look up the definition of hero. I think I just gave it you."

More than 300 firefighters, officers and paramedics have died from 9/11-related illnesses, including at least 19 New York State Police troopers.

Hogan also served in the Marines, serving in Beirut, Lebanon and during the Persian Gulf War.

“He was a compassionate, loving and faithful man. He loved this community. He loved serving it. And that will be his legacy,” Nigrelli said.