The Greenbrier County Republican Executive Committee honored West Virginia Air National Guard Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe with the Benny and Shirley Elmore Soaring Eagle Award on Saturday evening during its Common Sense Conservative Celebration.
Wolfe, a member of the Martinsburg-based 167th Airlift Wing, received the honor from Benton Anderson. The tribute recognized Wolfe for his courage and perseverance following an attack in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 26, 2025. While on a public safety mission near the Farragut West Metro Station, Wolfe and fellow guard member Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, of Summersville, were ambushed at close range. Beckstrom tragically died the next day on Thanksgiving Day. Anderson led the audience in a solemn moment of silence to honor her service and sacrifice.
Wolfe suffered critical injuries, including a gunshot wound to the head, but mounted an inspiring recovery through intensive medical care and rehabilitation. Joined by his parents, Melody and Jason, and his brother Trenton, Wolfe was commended for overcoming daunting odds with steady resolve.
Anderson praised the Purple Heart recipient as a living symbol of Mountain State resilience. Current and incoming members of the West Virginia Legislature joined Wolfe at the front of the room as the crowd honored the young hero with a standing ovation.
