Leaders in Passaic County took time Tuesday night to honor the county's victims who died on Sept. 11 ahead of the day marking 21 years since the terrorist attacks.

Residents, firefighters and law enforcement were just some of those who came to the Passaic County Public Safety Center in Wayne to honor the victims.

The county commissioners read the names of the 31 victims.

After the reading of each person's name, a bell rang in their honor.

Officials then brought the ceremony outside, where the county has a permanent memorial with the names of all the county's victims.

Officials laid a wreath in their honor and offered a silent prayer.

Passaic County Commissioners Director Bruce James message was to find the unity the country had 21 years ago in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.

"There's a way to honor all of the people who gave their lives or lost their lives, and that's by us being kind to each other. America only survives if we all are Americans together, and in this together, and we are," James said.

Officials said they have noticed a dwindling attendance from families of 9/11 victims over the last few years. They said they understand the families have endured so much pain and anguish over the last two decades.

Both elected leaders and members of the clergy offered them words of hope and strength.