West Virginia communities are grieving with a heavy heart this week as they honor two young members of the state’s National Guard who were ambushed in Washington, D.C. — a tragedy that has shaken families, friends, and service members across the state.
Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, just 20 years old, lost her life, while Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, continues fighting for his life in what officials describe as “very critical condition.”
Gov. Patrick Morrisey addressed the state solemnly on Friday, saying Wolfe’s condition remains extremely serious.
Both soldiers were hailed as devoted patriots who stepped up when their country called — deployed to D.C. as part of a mission aimed at restoring safety and stability to the nation’s capital.
A State Pauses to Pray
Gov. Morrisey issued a formal proclamation urging every West Virginian to pause for a statewide moment of silence and prayer — honoring Beckstrom’s sacrifice and lifting Wolfe in prayer. Flags across the state flew at half-staff in recognition of Beckstrom’s death.
“These two West Virginia heroes were serving this nation, protecting Americans, and standing watch over our capital when they were viciously attacked,” Morrisey said. “Their courage reflects the absolute best of West Virginia.”
A Thanksgiving Vigil in the Cold
In the small town of Webster Springs, dozens of residents bundled in jackets and hats gathered by a veterans memorial wall on Thanksgiving night. They lit candles, shared memories, and stood together as the news of Beckstrom’s passing rippled through the crowd.
Beckstrom — a 2023 Webster County High School honors graduate — had joined the Guard just weeks after graduation. She proudly served as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company, where commanders said she brought professionalism, heart, and an unwavering sense of duty.
Her unit shared a powerful tribute:
“She embodied leadership, integrity, and service. She volunteered for Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful, protecting the capital with pride and courage.”
A Father’s Heartbreak, A State’s Sorrow
Her father shared the painful news on Facebook:
“My baby girl has passed to glory.”
It was a message that spread across the state in minutes, breaking the hearts of thousands who had come to admire the young soldier’s service.
President Donald Trump, in a heartfelt statement, called Beckstrom:
“An extraordinary young woman — exceptional in every way.”
A Life of Kindness and Service
Friends remembered Beckstrom as a “girly girl” whose love of helping people outweighed any fear of military life — a testament to her compassion and her determination to make a difference. Though hesitant at first about her deployment, she eventually found joy in serving, helping residents, and exploring the memorials she had only seen in photos.
Her former boyfriend, Adam Carr, shared touching words with The New York Times, describing her as someone who brought light and kindness everywhere she went.
After high school, Beckstrom worked in Summersville at a clinic serving teens and young adults battling mental health challenges, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities — a job that reflected her heart for others.
Summersville’s mayor announced a community vigil to honor her memory.
Wolfe’s Family Asks for Prayers
In Berkeley County, Sheriff Rob Blair posted a message from Sgt. Wolfe’s parents — Sgt. Jason Wolfe and his wife, Melody — thanking the public for their prayers and asking people to continue lifting their son in hope and faith.
Wolfe serves with the 167th Force Support Squadron and works back home as a lineman with Frontier Communications. The company praised him as a hardworking, reliable team member committed to connecting families and businesses across the state.
A Student, An Athlete, A Leader
Musselman High School — where Wolfe graduated in 2019 — described him as a standout student-athlete who brought leadership, responsibility, and integrity into every classroom and onto every field.
Principal Alicia Riggleman said Wolfe “embodied the Applemen spirit,” leaving a lasting mark on the school community.
West Virginia Mourns — And America Stands With Them
These two young service members answered the call to defend their nation.
They traveled far from home to help restore order in the nation’s capital.
They served with courage, honor, and heart.
One has now given her life.
The other continues fighting for his.
And a grateful nation will not forget their sacrifice.