West Virginia Communities Honor Guardsmen Targeted in Washington Terror Attack

West Virginia communities gathered this week to honor two National Guard members shot in Washington, underscoring the state’s enduring commitment to the men and women who serve. The fallen was Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, while Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains hospitalized after Wednesday’s assault.

Wolfe’s condition was described Friday by Governor Patrick Morrisey as “very critical.” In the line of duty, these two West Virginia heroes were deployed to Washington to bolster public safety and protect the nation’s capital.

These protections are more than a routine mission; they embody the resolve of a state and a nation that will not yield to violence.

Morrisey’s office announced a proclamation calling on all West Virginians to observe a statewide moment of silence or prayer on Friday afternoon to honor Wolfe and Beckstrom. In addition, Morrisey ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in recognition of Beckstrom’s death.

“These two West Virginia heroes were serving our country and protecting our nation’s capital when they were maliciously attacked,” Morrisey said. “Their courage and commitment to duty represent the very best of our state.” The strongest tribute a community can offer is to reaffirm its gratitude and its readiness to stand with the families who bear the cost of service.

The story rippled through small towns as well, with a Thanksgiving night vigil at a wall honoring veterans in Webster Springs drawing a few dozen locals who stood bundled against the chill. In moments like these, the state is reminded that service comes with sacrifice, and the call to duty extends beyond the battlefield.

Beckstrom’s life reflected a blend of duty and compassion. The Webster County High School graduate, who earned honors in 2023, joined the National Guard a few weeks later and served with distinction as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company.

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Beckstrom “exemplified leadership, dedication and professionalism,” the West Virginia National Guard stated, adding that she “volunteered to serve as part of Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful, helping to ensure the safety and security of our nation’s capital.”

These words describe a young woman who wore camouflage with the same sense she wore empathy for others, a testament to her big heart.

Beckstrom’s family expressed their sorrow in a way that reminded many of the cost of service. Her father posted on social media that it was a horrible tragedy, and the loss has touched people far beyond Beckstrom’s hometown. The outpouring of support continues as communities honor her memory and the commitment she showed daily.

On the national stage, President Donald Trump spoke of Beckstrom in terms many veterans and families find meaningful. He called Beckstrom an “incredible person, outstanding in every single way.” That simple tribute from the president underscored a broader truth about national service: every sacrifice strengthens the republic and renews the public’s trust in those who answer the call.

The tale of Wolfe is equally compelling for a different reason. A friend and classmate spoke of a life that grew from curiosity to meaningful labor, noting Wolfe’s path from Musselman High School in 2019 to a role where he could serve both nation and local community.

“As long as she was with people who cared about her, she was having a good time,” Carr told the newspaper as he reflected on Beckstrom’s approach to service and friendship.

Wolfe, who serves with the 167th Force Support Squadron, has worked as a lineman with Frontier Communications since early 2023.

Frontier Communications stated that Wolfe “is a valuable member of our team, working hard to bring high-speed fiber internet to homes and businesses so everyone can stay connected to essential services and fully participate in the digital economy.”

The company’s tribute highlighted the practical value of service and the role of technology in keeping communities resilient and connected, especially in challenging times.

The community’s remembrance extended to Wolfe’s school, where Berkeley County officials noted his accomplishments.

Wolfe graduated from Musselman High School in 2019, and Principal Alicia Riggleman recalled a student who was “engaged and high-achieving,” someone who “embodied the Applemen spirit, contributing positively to our school community both academically and athletically.”

Such memories reinforce the belief that leadership and character form the core of public life.

In Summersville, officials announced plans for a candlelight vigil honoring Beckstrom, a sign of how local government and residents value sacrifice as much as achievement. Sheriff Rob Blair and others urged prayers for Wolfe’s recovery as the nation considers national defense and public safety in a wider political context.

This tragedy arrives at a moment when the country is focused on a robust national security posture, and it presents a test for the nation’s leadership.

The Trump administration, along with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s approach to defense and readiness, has consistently emphasized strengthening the guard, modernizing capabilities, and ensuring that law enforcement and military personnel can perform their duties with the backing of a resolute national strategy.

The lives of Beckstrom and Wolfe remind Americans that security at home depends on a determined, well-equipped force and the political will to support them.

In that sense, their stories are not only about sorrow but also about resolve, and about a country that chooses to honor and empower those who stand at the front lines to protect our communities.

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