West Virginia National Guardsmen **Sarah Beckstrom, 20**, and **Andrew Wolfe, 24**, have been identified as the two soldiers critically wounded in Wednesday’s shocking shooting near the White House. Authorities confirmed that the gunman was an **Afghan national who arrived in the United States in 2021
though investigators have not yet released information regarding a possible motive. The attack has sent shockwaves through military communities in West Virginia and across the nation as loved ones anxiously await updates on the soldiers’ conditions.
Both Beckstrom and Wolfe underwent emergency surgery shortly after being transported to a D.C.-area trauma center. Hospital officials say the pair remain in **critical condition**, with medical teams monitoring them closely as they fight for their lives. Their families, who rushed to the capital upon receiving the news, are asking for privacy and prayers during this immensely difficult time.
Fellow Guard members describe both soldiers as dedicated, disciplined, and deeply committed to their service—a commitment that placed them on the front lines of one of the nation’s most secure and sensitive areas.Beckstrom, known among her peers for her determination and leadership potential, had enlisted shortly after graduating high school.
Friends say she dreamed of a long military career and took pride in every mission assigned to her. Wolfe, a respected guardsman with several years of service, was admired for his reliability, strong work ethic, and calm presence even in stressful situations.The shooting has prompted heightened security across Washington, D.C.,
while federal and military investigators work to piece together what led to the violent attack. As the investigation continues, vigils and prayer gatherings are being organized in the soldiers’ hometowns in West Virginia, where community members are rallying around their families. For now, the nation waits—hoping that Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew Wolfe will pull through and return home to the support of the communities that love them.
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