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Memorial Service Held For Officer Killed During Funeral Procession

CYPRESS (AP) — A Southern California motorcycle officer, who was killed while escorting the funeral of another law enforcement officer, is being remembered at his own memorial service.

Hundreds of officers from several states gathered Friday to remember 44-year-old Hawthorne Police Officer Andrew Garton. Friends described him as a selfless, devoted officer and father of two who was considered a mentor to younger officers.

State Attorney General Kamala D. Harris told his children: "In the eyes of California, your dad is a hero."

Garton, a seven-year veteran, was killed last month while escorting a funeral procession for another officer who had died of cancer. Garton's motorcycle collided with that of another officer, who suffered a broken leg.

Garton was the first officer killed in the line of duty in the department's 89-year history.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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