Governor Patrick Morrisey (R-WV) issued a proclamation requesting that all state residents observe a moment of silence and prayer in honor of Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe and Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, the two National Guard members attacked this week.
“These two West Virginia heroes were serving our country and protecting our nation’s capital when they were maliciously attacked,” Morrisey said in a statement. “Their courage and commitment to duty represent the very best of our state. I am asking every West Virginian to pause at 2:15 p.m. on Friday to pray for their families and their fellow service members.”
“The people of West Virginia stand united in condemning this cowardly and evil act,” the governor added. “We honor SSgt Wolfe for his courage, and we honor SPC Beckstrom for making the ultimate sacrifice in service to her state and nation. We hold their families, their friends, and their fellow Guardsmen in our deepest thoughts and prayers. This moment of silence, and lowering of the flags, is one small way to demonstrate our gratitude, our respect, and our support during this painful and heartbreaking time.”
According to the proclamation, West Virginians are to honor the members’ service to the state and nation and seek to “preserve these heroes, their families, and their comrades in the National Guard in thought and prayer.”
The proclamation further orders that “all United States flags and West Virginia flags displayed on all State-owned facilities throughout West Virginia shall be lowered to half-staff beginning at noon on November 28, 2025, and to remain there until sunset on December 31, 2025, to mourn the loss of SPC Beckstrom and honor her service to the State of West Virginia and the united States.”
