West Virginia honors fallen National Guard soldier
In a recent appearance on ‘The Sunday Briefing,’ West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey, a Republican, addressed the tragic shooting in Washington, D.C., which targeted two National Guard soldiers. He also touched on the Trump administration’s efforts to overturn immigration policies implemented during the Biden era.
President Donald Trump revealed on Sunday that he had spoken personally with the families of the two soldiers involved in last week’s shooting near the White House. Among the victims was 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, who tragically succumbed to her injuries, and Andrew Wolfe, who remains in critical condition. Trump expressed his intention to honor these soldiers with a ceremony at the White House.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump described the profound impact the attack had on the families of the West Virginia National Guard members. “The families are devastated,” he remarked, reflecting on the incident that occurred just blocks away from the heart of the nation’s capital.
Trump highlighted the ongoing struggle faced by Andrew Wolfe, sharing, “Andrew is fighting for his life, and his parents, who are incredibly devout, are relying on prayer. They have asked for everyone to join them in praying for his recovery, as there is still hope for him.”
Additionally, Trump noted that he had spoken with the families about the possibility of a White House visit to pay tribute to their loved ones.
A poignant file photo of National Guardsman Andrew Wolfe, who remains in serious condition following the attack on November 26, 2025, was provided by the Department of Justice. The nation watches and waits, hopeful for his recovery.
“I said, ‘When you’re ready, because that’s a tough thing, come to the White House. We’re going to honor Sarah,’” Trump told reporters. “And likewise with Andrew, recover or not.”
File photo of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom who was shot in an attack in Washington D.C., on Nov. 26, 2025. She later died of her injuries. (Provided by Department of Justice)
Beckstrom, a specialist in the Army, and Wolfe, an Air Force staff sergeant, were among members of the West Virginia National Guard deployed to the D.C. area after Trump signed an executive order aiming to tackle crime in the city earlier this year.
The suspected shooter is Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national.
Lakanwal had legally entered the United States in September 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, the Biden administration’s Afghan evacuation and resettlement program.
Emergency personnel gather near where two National Guard soldiers were shot near the White House on Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Mark Schiefelbein/AP)
Lakanwal faces charges of first-degree murder and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed. Attorney General Pam Bondi has said the Department of Justice intends to seek the death penalty.
Local vigils in West Virginia have honored the two soldiers, including one Saturday evening at Webster County High School, where Beckstrom attended classes.
President Trump announced Thursday that National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, 20, of West Virginia, has died after she and another guardsman were shot in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. (District of Columbia National Guard via X)
West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey called Beckstrom a “favorite daughter of Webster County” during the vigil, saying she had developed a reputation as someone with a big heart who loved to serve others.
“She had a lot of kindness and she certainly had courage,” Morrisey told the crowd. “Though her life lasted far too short, she has left a mark that’s going to last forever.”
