Washington, D.C. – Governor Patrick Morrisey today joined Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and military leaders at the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes to recognize Major Edwin Stanfield and Major Ryan Reynolds for their extraordinary acts of heroism during a November attack on West Virginia National Guardsmen.
“When faced with a threat – the ambush of SSgt Andrew Wolfe and Spc Sarah Beckstrom – they did not hesitate,” said Governor Morrisey. “They moved toward the danger and acted decisively. In doing so, they defended not only Americans, but West Virginians, and saved countless lives.”
Held at the Pentagon, the ceremony honored Major Stanfield with the Airman’s Medal and Major Reynolds with the Soldier’s Medal, two of the military’s highest awards for heroism outside of combat. Both men acted without hesitation, putting themselves in harm’s way to protect others and prevent further loss of life.
SSgt Andrew Wolfe was injured in the attack, and Spc Sarah Beckstrom was killed. SSgt Wolfe continues to recover and, along with Beckstrom’s family, was honored with the Purple Heart during President Trump’s State of the Union address earlier this year.
“This kind of heroism does not come out of nowhere,” said Governor Morrisey. “It is rooted in something deeper and developed over time through the values you hold, the people you meet along the way, and the communities you call home. I’d like to think West Virginia played a role in shaping the kind of courage we saw that day.”
West Virginia consistently ranks among the top states in the nation for military enlistment, demonstrating a strong culture of service, sacrifice, and commitment to country.
