Who Was Sarah Beckstrom? Fallen National Guard Hero

WASHINGTON, D.C. — November 28, 2025:
U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Marie Beckstrom, a 20-year-old member of the West Virginia Army National Guard, has been identified as the service member killed in the Washington, D.C. shooting on Wednesday that left another Guard member critically injured. Her death, confirmed on Thanksgiving Day, has drawn nationwide mourning and renewed attention to the sacrifices made by young Americans serving in the capital.

Beckstrom was shot at close range while on duty near the White House as part of President Trump’s public safety deployment in Washington. The attack also critically wounded U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24. Police have arrested Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, in connection with the shooting.

Early Life in Summersville, West Virginia

Born and raised in Summersville, West Virginia, Sarah Beckstrom grew up in a close-knit community known for its small-town character and strong ties to military service. Friends and family described her as compassionate, hardworking, and deeply committed to helping others.

Her former boyfriend, speaking after her death, said she was “caring and tender-hearted” and motivated by a strong desire to serve her country. Those who knew her said she had talked about law enforcement since early high school and often expressed admiration for public servants who protected their communities.

Joining the West Virginia Army National Guard

Beckstrom enlisted in the West Virginia Army National Guard on June 6, 2023, shortly after turning 18. She was assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company, a unit responsible for security operations, law enforcement assistance, and disaster response missions.

Commanders described her as disciplined, dependable, and eager to take on responsibilities beyond her age. She reportedly excelled in training, quickly becoming known for her calm demeanor and willingness to volunteer for difficult assignments.

Her decision to join the National Guard was driven in part by her long-term dream of working for the FBI, according to those close to her. She viewed the Guard as both a path of service and a stepping stone toward her career goals in federal law enforcement.

Volunteering for Duty in Washington, D.C.

In 2025, President Trump deployed National Guard units to Washington, D.C. under a declared “crime emergency,” increasing uniformed patrols across federal areas. When the mission was announced, Beckstrom volunteered to join the rotation, seeing it as an opportunity to gain experience, serve the country, and contribute to public safety efforts in the nation’s capital.

Friends said she was proud to be selected and felt honored to represent West Virginia in a high-profile mission. Her family, though concerned about her safety, supported her decision and admired her dedication.

For several months, she worked alongside other Guard members in high-security zones surrounding the White House, National Mall, transportation hubs, and federal buildings.

The Attack Near the White House

On Wednesday, November 26, Beckstrom and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe were conducting a routine patrol near the White House. At approximately 4:15 p.m., both were shot at close range. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots before seeing the two service members collapse.

Emergency responders rushed Beckstrom to Washington General Hospital, where doctors fought to stabilize her. Despite their efforts, she succumbed to her injuries on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025.

Her death triggered an outpouring of grief across military communities, with senior officials calling her loss a tragedy for the National Guard and the nation.

Suspect Arrested

Police arrested Rahmanullah Lakanwal shortly after the shooting. The 29-year-old Afghan national arrived in the U.S. in 2021 and was granted asylum earlier this year. Authorities say he acted alone and are investigating the motive behind the attack.

The incident has prompted new federal reviews of immigration and asylum policies, but officials emphasized that the focus must remain on supporting the victims and honoring their service.

Remembering Sarah Beckstrom

Tributes to Specialist Beckstrom began appearing within hours of her death. Former classmates, teachers, and fellow Guard members posted messages describing her kindness, sense of duty, and unwavering loyalty to her team.

Her former boyfriend recalled her as someone who “always put others first” and said she dreamed of becoming an FBI agent to “protect people who couldn’t protect themselves.”

Her commanders at the 863rd Military Police Company issued a statement praising her professionalism and calling her “an example of the courage and commitment that defines the National Guard.”

Community leaders in Summersville prepared local memorial events, while the state of West Virginia ordered flags lowered to half-staff in her honor.

A Rising Career Cut Short

At just 20 years old, Beckstrom was at the beginning of her military career. She planned to continue her service while pursuing criminal justice studies, according to friends who said she researched FBI career paths frequently and spoke passionately about joining federal investigations one day.

Her death marks not only a loss for her family and community but also the end of a promising future dedicated to public service. Military leaders emphasized that her commitment to duty, even at a young age, reflected the best qualities of the soldier she aspired to be.

National Response and Legacy

Leaders from across the political spectrum have expressed condolences. President Trump called her “a brave young American who stood watch to keep the nation safe.” West Virginia officials described her as “one of our own.”

Beckstrom’s legacy now becomes part of a broader conversation about the role of National Guard members in domestic missions and the safety challenges they face while deployed.

Her service, dedication, and aspirations serve as a reminder of the young lives shaped by duty — and, in her case, tragically cut short.