CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) – The West Virginia National Guard Office of the Adjutant General offers the following updates in regard to the Guardsmen injured and killed while serving on the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Mission.
The WVNG confirms no change in status for U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, assigned to the Force Support Squadron, 167th Airlift Wing, West Virginia Air National Guard. Family remains by Staff Sgt. Wolfe’s side, along with military leadership and fellow WVNG members.
Governor Patrick Morrisey issued a formal proclamation ordering flags to be flown at half-staff in recognition of the passing of Spc. Beckstrom on Thursday.
Distinguished transfer and funeral arrangements are currently being coordinated with the family and will be released in accordance with the families’ wishes.
“These two West Virginia heroes were serving our country and protecting our nation’s capital when they were maliciously attacked,” Governor Morrisey said. “Their courage and commitment to duty represent the very best of our state. I am asking every West Virginian to pray for their families and their fellow service members.”
“At the request of the family, we are honoring their need for privacy as we prepare for the dignified transfer of our fallen Guardsman, Spc. Sarah Beckstom. The West Virginia National Guard is committed to ensuring that every element of this solemn process is carried out with the highest level of respect, care, and military protocol for Spc. Beckstrom and her family. We will uphold the full honors their service deserves, and we stand with the family and loved ones during this profoundly difficult time,” said Maj. Gen. Jim Seward, the Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard.
“This is a devastating loss to our National Guard family,” said Col. Larry Doane, Joint Task Force District of Columbia commander. “Spc. Sarah Beckstrom came to the District from West Virginia to make our nation’s capital safe and beautiful. She is a hero, and we mourn her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones and with the West Virginia National Guard.”
