A police officer killed in a shootout last month was hailed Monday as a public servant who put the safety of his country and community ahead of his own.

Thousands of family, friends and law enforcement officers from across the state gathered at the Fresno Convention Center to honor Reedley Police Officer Javier Bejar.

"As law enforcement officers we prepare for this event, but it still catches us off guard," said Chaplain Sam Estes after three of Bejar's fellow officers told tearful stories about their friend.

The former Marine and police Explorer Scout was mortally wounded Feb. 25 when he answered a call for backup when an arson suspect opened fire on Fresno County sheriff's deputies serving a search warrant. Also killed was Deputy Joel Wahlenmaier, who was buried last week.

The shooting suspect, Rick Liles, killed himself.

After spending five days on life support, Bejar became the first officer to die in the line of duty in Reedley's 100-year history.

Bejar's sister, Marciela Chavez, said the family prayed nonstop for "a miracle that did not happen." His organs were donated to help others.

"Even in death he is giving life," said lifelong friend John Salas, Bejar's barber. "To those who received his gifts of life, cherish them because Javier continues to live through you."

He leaves his wife, Mariam, his parents and seven brothers and sisters.

Those delivering eulogies described Bejar as "a cop's cop" who committed himself to the job he had sought since high school. His chief, Steve Wright, described Bejar as a dedicated officer who would only consider taking the sergeant's exam if it meant he could stay on patrol and not in the station. Many streets in downtown Fresno were closed for the hundreds of law enforcement vehicles from around California that are part of the funeral procession. On the blue-ribbon-lined route to Reedley Cemetery, the hearse bearing Bejar's body crossed under a giant American flag hoisted by two fire ladder trucks.

Bejar served in Kuwait and Iraq and joined the Reedley department in 2005. In 2007 he was named Officer of the Year. He had attained the rank of corporal when he died.

"Nothing will ever be the same without him," said friend and fellow officer, Clinton Horne.