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West Virginia Army National Guard Member Awarded Posthumous Distinguished Service Medal
SPC Sarah Beckstrom's parents receive honor for her service and sacrifice.
Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:08pm
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Governor Patrick Morrisey posthumously awarded the West Virginia Distinguished Service Medal to SPC Sarah Beckstrom, a member of the West Virginia Army National Guard, during a ceremony at the State Capitol. The medal was presented to Beckstrom's parents, Evalea and Gary Beckstrom, in recognition of her service and sacrifice. Beckstrom was fatally wounded last November while assigned to the Safe & Beautiful Task Force in Washington, D.C.
Why it matters
The West Virginia Distinguished Service Medal is the state's highest military honor, awarded to WVNG members who demonstrate conspicuous or distinguished service in the line of duty. Beckstrom's posthumous award highlights her bravery and commitment to serving her state and country.
The details
SPC Sarah Beckstrom served with the 863rd Military Police Company in Glen Jean, West Virginia. She was assigned to the Safe & Beautiful Task Force in Washington, D.C. when she was fatally wounded last November. Governor Patrick Morrisey presented the West Virginia Distinguished Service Medal to Beckstrom's parents, Evalea and Gary Beckstrom, during a ceremony at the State Capitol attended by members of the WVNG.
- SPC Beckstrom was fatally wounded in November 2025.
- The award ceremony took place on March 14, 2026.
The players
Governor Patrick Morrisey
The Governor of West Virginia who posthumously awarded the West Virginia Distinguished Service Medal to SPC Sarah Beckstrom.
SPC Sarah Beckstrom
A member of the West Virginia Army National Guard who was fatally wounded while assigned to the Safe & Beautiful Task Force in Washington, D.C.
Evalea and Gary Beckstrom
The parents of SPC Sarah Beckstrom, who received the posthumous award on her behalf.
What they’re saying
“Today we honor a daughter of West Virginia who answered the call to serve and gave everything in the line of duty. Specialist Sarah Beckstrom wore the uniform with pride and represented the very best of our state. While no recognition can ever repay the sacrifice she made or the loss felt by her family, this medal stands as a symbol of our deep gratitude and the lasting respect of the people of West Virginia.”
— Governor Patrick Morrisey
The takeaway
SPC Sarah Beckstrom's posthumous award of the West Virginia Distinguished Service Medal underscores the state's commitment to honoring the service and sacrifice of its National Guard members, even in the face of tragic loss.
