Law enforcement officers honored their fallen brothers and sisters Thursday at the 29th annual Blue Mass in Newark.

The Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart paid tribute to 15 officers who died in the line of duty.

Anthony Varvaro, the Major League Baseball pitcher-turned-Port Authority police officer, was also among those who were honored. He was killed in a car accident on his way to a 9/11 memorial service.

The families of law enforcement officers were also present to show their support.

"It's really important that for the law enforcement community and families to honor the fallen that sacrificed their lives for service of the country, the state and their local communities," said Sgt. Neil Ortiz, of the New Jersey State Parole Board.

"I just hope I never have to come back here again. If they do that, then I'm the happiest cop alive, but we know that's not going to happen," said Capt. Robert V. Kneer, of the New Jersey State Honor Guard.

Four local police officers who killed in the line of duty within the past few years were also honored.