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At a news conference today, police called Clayton a hero, saying she gave her life protecting the community she loved.

Clayton grew up in Orlando and \"deeply cared\" about the community, the police said.

She had been with the Orlando Police Department since 1999 and was promoted to Master Sergeant last year, the police said.

She has a son, who is in college, police said.

THIS is how we know and remember Sergeant Debra Clayton. She always had a smile for kids and always took a moment to interact w/community. pic.twitter.com/8zL46iyUe6

— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) January 9, 2017

Sgt. Clayton was extremely active with @pkzorlando. She loved working with kids and they loved her too! Rest peacefully, Sarge. pic.twitter.com/Xfpm4ctiqP

— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) January 9, 2017

Orlando police on Twitter called it \"tragic irony\" that the officers died on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.

Tragic irony: The deaths of OPD Sgt Clayton & OCSO Deputy occurred on #lawenforcement appreciation day We are still committed to your safety pic.twitter.com/IZ1ullEJo8

— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) January 9, 2017
\"PHOTO:
Jacob Langston/Orlando Sentinel via AP
PHOTO: Law enforcement officers escort the body of the Orange County deputy that died in the line of duty on Monday to the Orange County Medical Examiner's Office on Jan. 9, 2017.
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