Portion of Highway 87 dedicated to fallen San Jose Officer Michael Johnson

SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) -- A year ago today, San Jose lost a police officer killed in the line of duty. On the anniversary, an honor will ensure his name is never forgotten. Part of Highway 87, between 85 and 280, is being dedicated in his name.

A ceremony wrapped up Thursday morning. It was emotional as family, friends, co-workers and the community honored him as a hero.

Johnson's family, including his wife and parents were at the event, as well as city and state leaders honoring him as a hero.

Johnson was shot and killed a year ago in the line of duty while responding to a call on Senter Road He grew up in San Jose, attended Gunderson high school and patrolled the streets of as an officer for 14 years.

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His mother Katherine Decker, was asked which road she would like named after her son. She said she had great memories of Johnson while Highway 87 was under construction.

"It was the road Michael and I would go on. We'd sneak in there when he was a teenager and we'd ride our bikes. It was like mom and son time together. And it was awesome," Decker said.

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A resolution passed the state legislature last year designated the portion of Highway 87 between Highway 85 and 280 as the San Jose police officer Michael Johnson Memorial Highway.

The San Jose Police department says the highway signs at these designated locations will forever show the community's gratitude for his service and sacrifice.

The signs are scheduled to go up.