The thousands of students, staff members, parents and other citizens who walk, bike and drive past Gainesville High School each week on what was formerly known simply as NW 19^th Lane will now have a constant reminder of the life and sacrifice of one of the school’s favorite sons.

The street was recently renamed Spc. Christopher Neiberger Lane in honor of the 2003 GHS graduate, who was killed in August by a roadside bomb while serving with the U.S. Army in Iraq. A new street sign bearing Neiberger’s name was unveiled during a special ceremony at the site, a ceremony that included performances by the GHS band and chorus, a presentation of the colors by members of the school’s Naval ROTC program and comments from Superintendent Dan Boyd and Gainesville Mayor Pegeen Hanrahan.

“As we dedicate this lane, let’s not forget Chris’ love of country, his sense of duty and his service to his country,” said Boyd to the assembled students, staff and guests, including Neiberger’s parents Richard and Mary.

Hanrahan reflected on Neiberger’s life, including his active community service through his church and the Boy Scouts. She encouraged the students assembled for the ceremony to follow Christopher’s example in their own lives.

“Let him be an inspiration to you,” she said. “Live up to his hope and promise, and do whatever you can to show your respect for what he has given in service to his nation and to the world.”

During the ceremony, Neiberger’s parents and GHS principal Wiley Dixon were presented with duplicates of the new sign created in his honor.

“We’re very honored that the city and school have chosen to honor Chris in this way,” said Dr. Neiberger. “Everyone has been very kind to us, and of course we are very proud of him.”

“We wanted to do something to remember him and recognize his sacrifice,” said Dixon. “We thought that this would be appropriate. It’s something that our students and the citizens of Gainesville will see every day, and it will be lasting.”