RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. — A group of police officers attended the graduation of the son of a reserve deputy who was slain mere hours before the son was scheduled to receive his high school diploma.

According to Arkansas Matters, Dakota Smith received a salute from police from multiple agencies and a standing ovation as he was called to the stage to receive his diploma." Dr. David Hopkins told the publication. Dakota’s father – 42-year-old Reserve Deputy Sonny Smith — was gunned down at 2:30 a.m. on May 15. The graduation was the same day — only hours later.

Along with the officers in attendance, the graduating class wore black ribbons in support of the fallen officer.

"There was a lot of outpouring emotion at that point, he received a lot of applause and rightfully so. It took a lot of courage for him and his family to be here tonight and I know that's where their dad would want them to be," Dr. David Hopkins told the publication.