Communities across West Virginia are coming together to honour two members of the state's National Guard who were shot while serving in Washington, D.C. this week, praising their unwavering commitment to protecting their country.
Tragic Outcome for Dedicated Service Members
U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, aged 20, tragically lost her life, while U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains hospitalised in very critical condition according to West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey's Friday update. The shooting occurred on Wednesday afternoon.
Both service members were described as selfless and dedicated professionals who had been deployed to the nation's capital as part of Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful, an initiative designed to enhance public safety in Washington.
Statewide Tributes and Community Mourning
Governor Morrisey issued a proclamation requesting all West Virginians observe a statewide moment of silence or prayer on Friday afternoon to honour both Wolfe and Beckstrom. The governor also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in recognition of Beckstrom's ultimate sacrifice.
"These two West Virginia heroes were serving our country and protecting our nation's capital when they were maliciously attacked," Morrisey stated. "Their courage and commitment to duty represent the very best of our state."
The community of Webster Springs held a vigil on Thanksgiving night at a wall honouring veterans, where dozens gathered shortly after news broke of Beckstrom's death. Beckstrom graduated with honours from Webster County High School in June 2023 and joined the National Guard approximately four weeks later.
According to a statement from the West Virginia National Guard, Beckstrom served with distinction as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company. "She exemplified leadership, dedication, and professionalism," the statement noted, adding that Beckstrom had "volunteered to serve as part of Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful, helping to ensure the safety and security of our nation's capital."
Remembering Specialist Sarah Beckstrom
Friends and classmates remembered Beckstrom as someone who surprised them with her career choice. One friend recalled how someone remembered as a "girly girl" ended up wearing camouflage and training with firearms, attributing this transformation to her generous spirit and desire to help others.
Beckstrom had been stationed in Washington, D.C. with her unit since early August. Her former boyfriend, Adam Carr, told The New York Times that while she wasn't initially excited about the deployment, she grew to appreciate helping people and enjoyed visiting the capital's memorials and museums.
"As long as she was with people who cared about her, she was having a good time," Carr told the newspaper.
After completing high school, Beckstrom moved to Summersville, where she worked as a community engagement specialist at a clinic providing services for teenagers and young adults dealing with mental health challenges, substance abuse issues, or developmental disabilities. Summersville Mayor Robert Shafter confirmed the community plans to hold a candlelight vigil in her honour on Saturday.
Support for Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe
Meanwhile, support continues to grow for Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe and his family. Berkeley County Sheriff Rob Blair shared that Wolfe's parents, Sergeant Jason Wolfe and his wife Melody, have expressed deep appreciation for the public's prayers and requested continued support for their son.
Wolfe serves with the 167th Force Support Squadron and has worked as a lineman with Frontier Communications since early 2023. The company released a statement praising Wolfe as "a valuable member of our team, working hard to bring high-speed fibre internet to homes and businesses so everyone can stay connected to essential services and fully participate in the digital economy."
"We're grateful for Andrew's dedication - to our nation, to West Virginia and to the communities he helps keep connected," the company added.
Berkeley County schools confirmed that Wolfe graduated from Musselman High School in 2019. Principal Alicia Riggleman described him as an engaged and high-achieving student during his school years, noting that he "embodied the Applemen spirit, contributing positively to our school community both academically and athletically."
The West Virginia National Guard shooting has united communities in grief and support, highlighting the risks service members face while protecting public safety, even within their own country's borders.
