Twenty-five years after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the Seaford community continues to honor the lives lost and ensure their memories live on.

Seaford High School, home to one of the first 9/11 memorials of its kind, has held an annual commemoration ceremony every year since the attacks. On Thursday, community members, friends and family gathered once again to remember five alumni who died on Sept. 11, 2001.

Those honored included firefighter brothers Tommy and Timmy Haskell, police officer John Perry, Robert Sliwak and Michael Wittenstein.

Each year, residents join together at the memorial to reflect on the tragedy and celebrate the lasting impact these individuals had on their community.

"Out of this horrible event, this thing that, I mean the scenes, the memory is seared in our minds. But something positive came out of it. It's really had a great impact on the students here," said Tom Condon, of the Seaford 9/11 Memorial Committee.

In the years following the attacks, Seaford High School established the Patriot Award, which recognizes students for their service, character and commitment to the community.

Organizers say the award is designed to carry forward the legacy of Seaford's 9/11 heroes and inspire future generations to give back.