New Brunswick, NJ – New Jersey State Police Trooper Robert Nagle died in the line of duty on Nov. 26, when he succumbed to cancer that developed following his service at the World Trade Center terrorist attacks on Sep. 11, 2001.

Trooper Nagle, 67, had been diagnosed with kidney cancer, which ultimately metastasized to his lungs, the New Jersey State Police said in press release.

Doctors working with the World Trade Center Health Program determined that the trooper’s cancer developed as a result of his response to the World Trade Center Attacks.

“It is with extreme sadness that Colonel Patrick Callahan announces today the tragic loss of a retired New Jersey State Trooper who died as a result of an illness contracted while serving in the line of duty in response to the World Trade Center terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001,” the press release read.

Trooper Nagle served the New Jersey State Police and the former New Jersey Marine Police for 34 years prior to his retirement in 2006.

He also served six years in the Air National Guard.

“Serving at the Fort Dix Barracks, I became friends with ‘Nails,’ as did many other Troopers,” Leon Brodowski wrote on the trooper’s memorial page.

“Nails was the consummate Operator, always going above and beyond what was asked or required,” Brodowski recalled. “Nails consistently honed his skills in his quest to become a member of the NJSP. [He] worked very hard and succeeded in his dream.”

“Bob was one of the best guys I’ve ever worked with and I will miss him,” Brodowski wrote.

Following his retirement, Trooper Nagle worked as a security officer for the Toms River Township School District, according to his obituary.

“He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend and will be greatly missed by all,” the obituary read.

Trooper Nagle leaves behind his wife of 16 years, Regina, as well as his sons, grandchildren, brother, and many friends and extended family members.

Trooper Nagle was laid to rest on Nov. 29.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of New Jersey State Police Trooper Robert Nagle, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.

Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.