West Virginia communities honor National Guard members shot in Washington DC attack

SUMMERSVILLE, WEST VIRGINIA: Following the shooting of two National Guard members by an Afghan refugee, which led to the death of one and critically injured the other, communities and officials in West Virginia honored the victims, praising their dedication to serving the country.

The honor marks the state’s tribute to the young service members who represented their home state.

Statewide tribute and vigil for Andrew Wolfe and Sara Beckstrom

West Virginia Gov Patrick Morrisey issued a proclamation requesting that all West Virginians observe a statewide moment of silence or prayer on Friday afternoon to honor Andrew Wolfe and Sara Beckstrom. As part of the request, flags are 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.”

A few dozen bundled-up people gathered not long after the news came out of Beckstrom’s death at a Thanksgiving night vigil at a wall honoring veterans in Webster Springs, West Virginia.

Sara Beckstrom's service and  legacy

The West Virginia National Guard said in a statement that Beckstrom graduated with honors from Webster County High School in 2023 and joined the National Guard several weeks later. Beckstrom served with distinction as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company.

“She exemplified leadership, dedication, and professionalism,” the statement said, adding that Beckstrom “volunteered to serve as part of Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful, helping to ensure the safety and security of our nation’s capital.”

Beckstrom’s father posted on Facebook that it was a horrible tragedy. “My baby girl has passed to glory,” he wrote Thursday night.

President Donald Trump called Beckstrom an “incredible person, outstanding in every single way.”

Her former boyfriend, Adam Carr, told The New York Times she wasn’t initially excited about her deployment but began to enjoy helping people and getting the chance to see memorials and museums.

“As long as she was with people who cared about her, she was having a good time,” Carr told the newspaper.

Andrew Wolfe's role and civilian work

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

“He 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 said in a statement.

“We’re grateful for Andrew’s dedication — to our nation, to West Virginia, and to the communities he helps keep connected.”