The city of Mount Vernon paid tribute Tuesday to local soldiers, police officers and a firefighter who gave their lives protecting others.

Four trees were planted during a ceremony at Brush Park to honor the fallen heroes. One of the men honored was Det. Christopher Ridley, who was killed in January by four county police officers while breaking up a fight in White Plains.

Also honored was Lt. Col. Nasby Wynn, who became one of the Tuskegee Airmen and was the first black police officer hired by the city of Mount Vernon. Another honoree was Raymond Vandergerg, a Mount Vernon firefighter who at the time of his death was next in line to become lieutenant. Marine Cpl. Bernard Gooden, the first member of the armed forces from Westchester to die in Iraq, was also remembered at the ceremony.

Family members of those honored say the trees pay tribute to the men in a positive way. It will be a lasting, growing tribute to remind future generations of the sacrifices made by the men.To view interviews from the dedication, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and click on iO Extra.