A solemn farewell was bid to a member of the West Virginia National Guard who tragically lost her life in Washington, D.C., last month. The private service, replete with full military honors, was held to commemorate her service and sacrifice.

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom was laid to rest on Tuesday at the West Virginia National Cemetery located in Grafton. Governor Patrick Morrisey expressed his sentiments in a heartfelt statement about the ceremony.

“The ceremony was deeply moving and reflected the strength, grace, and love of a remarkable young woman and the family and friends who surrounded her,” said Morrisey, capturing the essence of the occasion.

A proud graduate of Webster County High School’s Class of 2023, Beckstrom joined the National Guard shortly after, marking the beginning of her service with the 863rd Military Police Company.

The tragic incident that claimed Beckstrom’s life occurred on November 26, when she and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe were unexpectedly attacked while patrolling a subway station just three blocks away from the White House. Beckstrom succumbed to her injuries the following day.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who was also shot during the confrontation, has been charged with murder. He pleaded not guilty.

Morrisey has said Wolfe, who remains in a hospital in Washington, is slowly healing and his family expects he will be in acute care for another few weeks.