Soldiers of the Joint Task Force – District of Columbia line the streets of Washington, D.C., during a fallen soldier procession honoring Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia National Guard. The escort reflects the nation’s gratitude for her service and ultimate sacrifice. Photo: D.C. National Guard.
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | November 2025
On the afternoon before Thanksgiving, a tragic act of violence near the gates of the nation’s capital claimed the life of Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, of the West Virginia Army National Guard, and left her comrade critically wounded.
At about 2:15 p.m. on November 26, 2025, Beckstrom and another Guardsman were standing watch near the Farragut West Metro station, just blocks from the White House, when a gunman opened fire in what federal officials have described as a “targeted ambush.”
Specialist Beckstrom, assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company, 111th Engineer Brigade, was struck immediately. Despite rapid emergency response and medical treatment, she succumbed to her injuries. President Donald J. Trump announced her death on Thanksgiving Day, honoring her service and sacrifice.
Her fellow Guardsman, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, remains hospitalized in critical condition, fighting for his life according to statements from federal officials.
A Life of Service
Sarah Beckstrom volunteered to serve, leaving home and family to stand guard on a holiday meant for gathering with loved ones. In doing so, she paid the ultimate price.
Her courage and dedication have drawn an outpouring of grief and respect. Federal leaders have vowed justice, state officials have pledged support for the Guard community, and citizens across the nation mourn a young life ended far too soon.
In remembering her, we honor not just the soldier but the values she represented: readiness, duty, and a commitment to protect others.
Honoring Her Unit and Colleagues
Specialist Beckstrom was a member of the 863rd Military Police Company, part of the 111th Engineer Brigade. Her unit is known for its discipline, precision, and dedication to both domestic and overseas missions.
Her colleagues have described her as dependable, brave, and ready to put the safety of others above her own. Federal officials have emphasized that the rapid response of her fellow Guardsmen likely prevented further tragedy and demonstrated the professionalism and courage of the unit.
The 863rd Military Police Company and the 111th Engineer Brigade, along with Beckstrom’s fellow soldiers, now bear the weight of this loss, carrying forward her memory in their daily service to the nation.
The Attack and the Suspect
Federal officials report that the gunman approached the two Guardsmen, fired immediately at Specialist Beckstrom, and then continued toward Staff Sgt. Wolfe. Other Guardsmen returned fire, subduing the attacker.
The suspect, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, is hospitalized under guard and in federal custody. Authorities describe the shooting as deliberate and premeditated. Federal prosecutors have indicated they will pursue the gravest charges allowable by law.
Honoring a Fallen Soldier
Sarah Beckstrom’s sacrifice reminds the nation of the risks faced daily by those who serve. On Thanksgiving Day, she stood guard so others could be safe. Today, the country remembers her bravery, her service, and the life that ended far too soon.
To her family, friends, and fellow Guardsmen: may her memory endure as a testament to courage, devotion, and the honor of the 863rd Military Police Company.
Sources / Official Statements:
- Presidential statement on the death of Sarah Beckstrom
- FBI / DOJ press briefing
- Department of War / Pentagon release on National Guard deployment
