CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Governor Patrick Morrisey issued the following statement on West Virginia National Guard Members receiving Purple Hearts during the State of the Union:
“Just now, during the State of the Union, President Donald 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 our nation’s capital.
“As the President spoke, 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 in the viewing gallery above. It was a solemn and unforgettable moment, one that ensured their courage and sacrifice were honored not only by West Virginia but also before the entire nation.
“I thank President Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth for recognizing these two extraordinary West Virginians in such a meaningful way. I formally requested these awards in December because their actions met the highest standards for this distinction. 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.
“West Virginia will never forget their service, their bravery, or their sacrifice.”