Oct. 20, 1981, marks a dark day in Rockland County history. Three people were shot to death and several others wounded during a violent robbery and the following investigation.

Those three men were honored on the 44th anniversary of that tragic day on Monday.

"This is one of those times where we always talk about never forgetting the sacrifice that police officers make and this is one example of the community and the police service still coming out each year to recognize their sacrifice," says Rockland County Undersheriff Robert VanCura.

On this day in 1981, a radical group of self-described revolutionaries robbed an armored truck outside the Nanuet National Bank at the Nanuet Mall. During that heist, they stole $1.6 million and killed security guard, Peter Paige.

About an hour later, while trying to escape the area, the group ambushed police who had set up a roadblock by the entrance to the New York State Thruway in Nyack.

Nyack Police Officer Waverly Brown and Sgt. Edward O'Grady were shot to death.

"I think we were all in shock, it's just something that never goes away," says Constance Frazier.

This day never gets easier for Frazier. Officer Brown was her cousin.

"Every year when we do this, it brings it all back front and center and the night before, I can never sleep," Frazier tells News 12.

An annual memorial service was held Monday. Hundreds gathered throughout the day to honor the three lives lost and reflect on the sacrifice they all made.

"I knew these two officers beforehand, it was personal, and it hit close to home," says VanCura.

Family members and law enforcement talked about the legacies of service, courage and commitment the men leave behind.

"We will never forget these men who gave their lives protecting this community," says Rockland County Sheriff Louis Falco III.