Reflection, heart felt sadness and respect was paid Wednesday night at the Placer Law Enforcement agencies honors and awards ceremony in Rocklin hours after Sacramento Deputy Larry Canfield was killed in a motorcycle accident.

"He absolutely loved what he did," said Sacramento Sheriff John McGinness about the 13-year veteran of the force. "Larry was a very, very outgoing, personable, happy sort of guy."

Canfield was responding to a speeder when he was hit by another vehicle on Coloma Road at Chardonay Drive in Rancho Cordova, McGinness said.

“It’s just horrible,” said Placer County Sheriff Ed Bonner. “We need to recognize the sacrifice this deputy made to protect that community, slowing people down.”

Auburn Police Chief Valerie Harris said everyone is thinking about the Canfield family.

“The loss of an officer on any day is huge impact on law enforcement. It’s ironic that it is today,” she said.

In addition to the tribute to Canfield, the evening was about awards. Rocklin Police Officer Brandon Olivera was honored with the Bronze Medal of Honor for his role in breaking up a Mexican drug cartel's drug operations in Rocklin and Roseville.

“I almost felt bad being honored tonight as his family is going through the worst day of their life,” Olivera said. “It’s horrible.”

Rocklin Officer Dan Groff said on the contrary, it makes the night even more important.

"People who put their lives on a daily basis need to be recognized for it. It’s a constant reminder that our job is very dangerous," Groff said.

Groff received a lifesaving award for using CPR to save a woman’s life before paramedics could arrive. Groff said as an honor guard member he will honor Canfield at his memorial.

"It’s a real risk. I think (officers) know it goes hand and glove," said Sheriff Bonner.

Next week the hands of these fine officers will be raised to salute Deputy Canfield for his own sacrifice.