West Virginia high school honors fallen National Guard member

Residents of West Virginia came together this past weekend to pay tribute to a National Guard member who lost her life in a shooting last week. U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom was remembered as a compassionate and uplifting individual committed to helping others.

Beckstrom, 20, died following a shooting in Washington last Wednesday, while her colleague, U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, remained in critical condition after sustaining serious injuries. Several local vigils have been held in the state to honor the service and memory of both soldiers, including one on Saturday evening at Webster County High School, Beckstrom's alma mater.

Sarah was the kind of student every teacher hoped for. She carried herself with quiet confidence, a radiant smile, and positive energy that lifted everyone around her, said Jarrod Hankins, the school principal. She was kind, caring, and always ready to help others.

Both Beckstrom and Wolfe were deployed with the West Virginia National Guard as part of federal efforts to support law enforcement in Washington, D.C. A 29-year-old Afghan national has been charged with first-degree murder and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed in connection with the incident. The shooting led the federal government to temporarily suspend asylum decisions and halt the issuance of visas for travelers on Afghan passports.

During the vigil, attendees filled bleachers and folding chairs, lighting candles while listening to clergy and state officials. Governor Patrick Morrisey shared that he had visited Wolfes family earlier in the day. Wolfe, a Martinsburg native who graduated from Musselman High School in 2019 and entered service in February 2019, remained hospitalized and fighting for his life, according to Morrisey.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi also indicated plans to meet with Wolfes family. Morrisey described the period as a particularly difficult time for the state. He praised Beckstrom, calling her a beloved daughter of Webster County and highlighting her dedication to serving others. Beckstrom, who graduated and enlisted in June 2023, served honorably as a military police officer with the West Virginia National Guard.

She showed immense kindness and courage, Morrisey said. Although her life was far too brief, the impact she made will be remembered forever.

Author: Sophia Brooks