Flags Lowered Across States to Honor Fallen WV National Guard Member Sarah Beckstrom

CHARLESTON, WV — December 4, 2025
Flags are being lowered across multiple states today in honor of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, the West Virginia Army National Guard soldier killed in the November 26 ambush near the White House. The observances follow a national directive and coordinated actions by federal and state officials.

According to the OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR OF WEST VIRGINIA, Governor Patrick Morrisey issued a statement acknowledging President Donald J. Trump’s order directing that flags nationwide be flown at half-staff in recognition of Specialist Beckstrom’s service and sacrifice. The governor thanked the administration for the gesture and called on West Virginians to pray for Beckstrom’s family and for Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, who remains hospitalized.

In a separate release earlier this week, the OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR OF WEST VIRGINIA described the attack on Beckstrom and Wolfe as a “malicious ambush” and asked citizens to pause for a moment of silence or prayer for both soldiers.

Delaware has also joined the national tribute. The OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR OF DELAWARE ordered flags at all state buildings and facilities to be flown at half-staff today in honor of Specialist Beckstrom. The order aligns with the federal observance and recognizes the soldier’s service as West Virginia and the nation mourn her loss.

The WEST VIRGINIA NATIONAL GUARD has publicly memorialized Beckstrom, highlighting her dedication, service, and the loss felt across the Guard community. The Guard has also continued to provide updates and support for Staff Sergeant Wolfe as he recovers.

Today’s flag observances give citizens across the country an opportunity to join in a visible expression of respect for Specialist Beckstrom and solidarity with her family, her fellow soldiers, and the people of West Virginia.

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Sources

Primary First-Hand Sources

• OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR OF WEST VIRGINIA — Statement following the President’s flag order for Specialist Beckstrom.
• OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR OF WEST VIRGINIA — Statement honoring Beckstrom and Wolfe following the ambush in Washington, D.C.
• OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR OF DELAWARE — Official order lowering state flags in memory of Specialist Beckstrom.
• WEST VIRGINIA NATIONAL GUARD — Public memorial statements regarding Beckstrom and updates concerning SSgt. Wolfe.