Salter Jr., who was one course away from graduating with a communication studies degree, received an honorary bachelor of arts degree from Canisius College following the tragedy, Buffalo News reports. Salter III accepted the diploma on behalf of his father during the school’s graduation ceremony.

Salter Jr., who retired four years ago from the Buffalo Police Department, was honored with a distinguished funeral service and recognized as an officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. A Buffalo police honor guard comprised of dozens of officers paid tribute with a 21-gun salute and an American flag draped over the casket, Buffalo News reports.

Aaron Salter

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