TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Troy is more than 150 miles away from New York City – but like for so many New Yorkers, the tragedy hitting very close to home, especially for the 20 Troy Firefighters who traveled to Ground Zero in the days following the attacks.

Gathering around Troy’s memorial site – they shared stories of how the smell of the fire and toxins in the air are something they will never forget.

Retired Assistant Chief James Hughes from the Troy Fire Department was among them, who is still suffering from health issues from responding to the site.

“I personally know four people that have had an aggressive prostate cancer from 9/11. Two of them have died. The other two are okay for now. I am one of them," said Hughes.

Because of the brave actions like Chief Hughes, they were given a

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