Two West Virginia National Guard Members to Receive Purple Heart After DC Ambush
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced on February 7 that two West Virginia National Guard members shot during a November ambush near the White House will be awarded the Purple Heart, one of the nation’s most revered military decorations. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe were both struck by gunfire in the attack carried out by an Afghan national, which Hegseth described as “a terrible thing” perpetrated by “a radical.” Speaking at a National Guard reenlistment ceremony held at the Washington Monument, Hegseth administered the oath of enlistment to over 100 Guardsmen from nine states serving in the capital and publicly confirmed the Purple Heart recognition for the two troops.
“Andrew Wolfe, Sarah Beckstrom, one lost, one recovered, thank God, in miraculous ways,” Hegseth said. “Both soon to be Purple Heart recipients because they were attacked by a radical.” The incident, which occurred on November 26, 2025, resulted in the death of one Guardsman and left another in recovery. The announcement marks the first official confirmation of the awards, highlighting the sacrifice and bravery of these service members.
The Purple Heart, awarded to those wounded or killed in action, is one of the oldest military decorations in the United States, symbolizing courage and dedication under fire. The Department of Defense maintains detailed information about the award and its significance on its official website. The National Guard, which plays a critical role in homeland defense and emergency response, has seen increasing deployments in the nation’s capital in recent years, especially amid heightened security concerns.
Secretary Hegseth’s remarks came amid a ceremony that underscored the ongoing commitment of National Guard members to the security of Washington, D.C. The Guardsmen from multiple states continue to serve in various capacities, supporting federal and local authorities. The incident last November prompted a swift response from law enforcement and federal agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which conducted a thorough investigation into the attack.
Officials have emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by service members on domestic soil, particularly those who face threats from individuals motivated by extremist ideologies. The ambush near the White House raised concerns about the security of key federal installations and the safety of personnel assigned to protect them.
For more information on the National Guard’s role in homeland security and the Purple Heart award, the National Guard Bureau and the Department of Defense provide comprehensive resources. The incident also highlights ongoing challenges faced by military and law enforcement agencies in countering threats within the United States.
As Specialist Beckstrom continues her recovery and Staff Sergeant Wolfe’s sacrifice is honored, the National Guard community and the nation recognize their courage and resilience. The Purple Heart awards serve as a solemn reminder of the risks faced by those who stand watch over the country’s capital and the enduring commitment of America’s service members to protect and defend.
Leave a Reply