East Bay Interchange dedicated to fallen CHP Officer Youngstrom

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (KGO) -- It's the highest honor a highway patrolman can receive - the dedication of a freeway in his name.

"Reminding the people of Contra Costa, the Bay Area and the state and all who pass through it of Kenyon's unwavering commitment to the people of California," CHP Division Chief Avery Brown said.

Friday is two years to the day that highway patrolman Kenyon Youngstrom, 37, was fatally shot during a traffic stop on Interstate 680 near Alamo, not far from the Highway 24 interchange. It's one of the busiest interchanges in California. It will now be known as the CHP Officer Kenyon Youngstrom Memorial Freeway.

"We will always be grateful for Kenyon's friendship, courage and dedication and that's why Kenyon's life and service will never be forgotten," said CHP Assistant Commissioner Ramona Prieto.

Youngstrom's widow and three of his four children attended the dedication ceremony. "It's very surreal know that but at the same time we appreciate it because we know that he will never be forgotten," said Youngstrom's wife Karen.

And now thanks to the signs along the freeway, thousands who drive this interchange everyday will forever have a chance to appreciate the sacrifice Youngstrom made.