West Virginia Honors Two National Guard Members After D.C. Shooting — One Killed, One Critically Wounded

Communities across West Virginia and state leaders are paying tribute to two National Guard members from the state who were shot while deployed in Washington, D.C. U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, was killed, and U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains hospitalized in very critical condition after Wednesday afternoon’s attack.

Governor Patrick Morrisey issued a proclamation asking West Virginians to observe a statewide moment of silence or prayer and ordered flags flown at half-staff to honor Beckstrom. “These two West Virginia heroes were serving our country and protecting our nation’s capital when they were maliciously attacked,” Morrisey said, adding that their courage and commitment represent the best of the state.

Local vigils and personal tributes

On Thanksgiving night, dozens gathered at a veterans’ memorial wall in Webster Springs for a candlelit vigil after news of Beckstrom’s death. Friends, classmates and community leaders remembered both service members as selfless, dedicated and committed to helping others.

Sarah Beckstrom graduated with honors from Webster County High School in June 2023 and enlisted in the West Virginia National Guard about a month later. She served as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company and volunteered for Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful, a deployment intended to help bolster public safety in the capital. Beckstrom also worked in Summersville as a community engagement specialist with a clinic serving teens and young adults facing mental health, substance use and developmental challenges. Summersville officials announced a planned candlelight vigil to honor her life and service.

“She exemplified leadership, dedication and professionalism,” the West Virginia National Guard said in a statement honoring Beckstrom’s service.

Friends recalled Beckstrom’s transformation from a college-age “girly girl” into a confident soldier who embraced the responsibilities of service — a change they attributed to her big heart and desire to help people. A former boyfriend said she grew to appreciate the chance to serve, help others and visit the memorials and museums in D.C.

Andrew Wolfe serves with the 167th Force Support Squadron. His parents, Sgt. Jason Wolfe and Melody Wolfe, asked the public to keep their son in prayers and thanked the community for its support. Wolfe, a Musselman High School graduate (class of 2019), works as a lineman for Frontier Communications, where he helped install high-speed fiber internet. Frontier praised his dedication to his job, his community and his country.

Community response

Local officials, school leaders and employers issued statements of support and remembrance. Berkeley County educators described Wolfe as an engaged, high-achieving student who contributed positively both academically and athletically. Across West Virginia, small towns and neighbors gathered to mourn, remember and support the families of the two guards members.

The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, and officials have not released further details publicly. State and community leaders continue to coordinate support for the families and for those affected by the tragedy.