Brandenburg Gate up for freedom and democracy to ensure that such injustice may never happen again," Berlin Mayor Klaus Wowereit said. German Chancellor Angela Merkel—who grew up behind the wall in Germany's communist eastern part—also attended the commemoration. German President Christian Wulff added, "It has been shown once again: Freedom is invincible at the end. No wall can permanently withstand the desire for freedom." On 19 June 2013, U.S. President Barack Obama spoke at the Gate about nuclear arms reduction and the recently revealed U.S. internet surveillance activities. On the night of 5 January 2015, the lights illuminating the gate were completely
Gate City High School a state championship in 2006 and were also state runner-up in 2005, 2012, and 2014. The boys’ team won the state championship for the 2017-2018 season and were also state runner-up for the 1998-1999, 2006-2007, 2007–2008, and 2012-13 seasons. The boys' team also won the Marshall Johnson Sportsmanship Award for the 2004-2005 season. Gate City won state championships in football in 1970, 1974, 1997, 2003, and 2010. Gate City was also state runners-up in 1978, 1994, and 2007. Gate City is second only to Hampton High School for the most appearances in the VHSL State Playoffs. Gate City has appeared