As far as signs go, it’s snazzy.

At least the people of Sharpsville think so.

It’s a simple rectangle of green with a white outline around a name, rank and nickname of a native son who was killed Jan. 26 in Afghanistan.

The Sgt. David W. Wallace III “Walleye” Memorial Bridge over the Shenango River on Walnut Street will serve as a reminder of the sacrifice Wallace made for his country.

It also will bring to mind the boy who enjoyed fishing along the Shenango, the one who played his heart out on the football field and grappled on the wrestling mat.

After graduating from Sharpsville High in 2002, Wallace enlisted in the Marine Corps under the buddy system with fellow Blue Devil Mike Kulka.

He served two tours of duty in Iraq and also was part of expeditionary forces in Bangladesh and Dubai.

On Nov. 5 2008, Wallace was deployed to Afghanistan for what turned out to be his final tour. His job included identifying, removing and exploding improvised explosive devices (IEDs), conducting searches, working on vehicles and construction projects.

Wallace was also involved in building an air base and helped to construct a training village in Iraq.

He was on foot when an IED killed him. A spokesman for Camp Lejeune said another member of his unit, Sgt. Trevor J. Johnson, 23, of Forsyth, Mont., also was killed.

During his time in the service, Wallace, 25, earned a Purple Heart; Marine Corps Good Conduct, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement, Afghanistan Campaign, Iraq Campaign, Humanitarian Service, Global War on Terrorism Service, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and National Defense Service medals; Combat Action and Sea Service Deployment ribbons; Certificate of Commendation (individual award); and Good Conduct Medal Award.

On Thursday, Wallace was again honored when the Walnut Street bridge across the Shenango was officially dedicated in his name.

Members of the Marines 4th Landing Support Battalion, Landing Support Equipment Company based in Vienna, Ohio, stood guard over the proceedings.

Cpl. Randy Kibler, Ssgt. Jose Arreguin, Ssgt. Douglas Simpson, Sgt. Michael Mascari, Cwo2 Brett Jorgenson and MSgt.. Steven Sharp serve as an honor guard and were the ones who broke the news to Sgt. Wallace’s mom Carol McKay.

They’ve since remained in touch with the family to offer support during the grieving process.