West Virginia
Gov. Morrisey presents W.Va. Distinguished Service Medal to family of Sarah Beckstrom
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WCHS) — On Saturday, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey presented the West Virginia Distinguished Service Medal to the family of United States Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom.
The medal recognizes Beckstrom’s service to the state of West Virginia and the United States as a member of the West Virginia National Guard.
“We gather here today with heavy hearts, but also with deep gratitude,” Morrisey said. “We’re really grateful for the life of Sarah, the service of Sarah and the sacrifice of Sarah.”
According to West Virginia Legislature, the West Virginia Distinguished Service Medal can be awarded to members of the West Virginia National Guard who “render conspicuous or distinguished service in the line of duty.”
Back in November, Beckstrom and another WVNG member, Andrew Wolfe, were shot while on deployment in Washington, D.C. Beckstrom died from her injuries a day later, while Wolfe continues to recover from his injuries.
On Feb. 24, U.S. President Donald Trump awarded the Purple Heart to both Wolfe and Beckstrom.