West Virginia National Guard Members Receive Purple Hearts

Governor Morrisey and Senators Justice and Capito release statements on the awards.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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During President Trump's 2026 State of the Union address, Purple Hearts were awarded to Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe and posthumously to U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, both members of the West Virginia National Guard. The awards recognized their courage and sacrifice in defending the nation's capital.

Why it matters

The Purple Heart is one of the military's highest honors, awarded to service members who are wounded or killed in combat. The recognition of these two West Virginia National Guard members highlights the sacrifices made by the state's military personnel in service of the country.

The details

According to press releases, during the State of the Union address, President Trump awarded the Purple Heart to U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom posthumously and to Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe for wounds sustained while defending the nation's capital. Major General James 'Jim' D. Seward, Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard, presented Specialist Beckstrom's medal to her parents and pinned the Purple Heart on Staff Sergeant Wolfe.

  • On February 24, 2026, during the State of the Union address, President Trump awarded the Purple Hearts.

The players

Andrew Wolfe

U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant who received a Purple Heart for wounds sustained while defending the nation's capital.

Sarah Beckstrom

U.S. Army Specialist who was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart for her service and sacrifice.

James 'Jim' D. Seward

Major General and Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard, who presented the medals.

Donald Trump

President of the United States, who awarded the Purple Hearts during the State of the Union address.

Pete Hegseth

Secretary of War, who recognized the West Virginia National Guard members' service and sacrifice.

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What they’re saying

“Tonight's recognition brings lasting honor to their service, offers comfort and affirmation to their families, and reminds our country that the men and women of the National Guard stand ready, and willing, to defend our freedoms.”

— Governor Morrisey (wvnstv.com)

“Sarah represents the best of West Virginia, and her family's courage and grace remind us of the sacrifices our service members and their families make every single day.”

— Senator Justice (wvnstv.com)

“Andrew is an absolute fighter and has epitomized true resilience in the face of insurmountable odds. His mother, Melody and her faith in both her son and the Good Lord above exemplifies the unbreakable spirit and deep faith that define West Virginia at its core.”

— Senator Justice (wvnstv.com)

The takeaway

The recognition of these two West Virginia National Guard members with the Purple Heart, one of the military's highest honors, underscores the sacrifices made by the state's service members in defending the nation. Their courage and service will be remembered and honored by West Virginians and the country as a whole.