Trump Invites Families of National Guard Members Who Were Shot to White House

President Donald Trump said on Nov. 30 that he plans to honor the two National Guard members who were shot in Washington last week and that he had invited their parents to the White House.

West Virginia National Guard members Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew Wolfe were shot on Nov. 26 in what authorities say was an ambush by an Afghan national near the White House. Beckstrom died from her injuries on Nov. 27, while Wolfe is still in critical condition.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he had spoken with Beckstrom’s parents and invited them, along with Wolfe’s parents, to the White House.

“The only thing I can say, they were devastated,” he told reporters. “I said, ‘When you’re ready, because that’s a tough thing, come to the White House. We’re going to honor Sarah. And likewise with Andrew, recover or not, we’re going to honor him.’”

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey has issued a proclamation calling on West Virginians to observe “a statewide moment of silence or prayer” on Nov. 28 to honor both Beckstrom and Wolfe.

“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.”

The governor also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in recognition of Beckstrom’s passing, according to his office. Morrisey said he wished to show the state’s gratitude, respect, and support for the families of both National Guard members “during this painful and heartbreaking time.”

“The people of West Virginia stand united in condemning this cowardly and evil act,” he said. “We honor SSgt Wolfe for his courage, and we honor SPC Beckstrom for making the ultimate sacrifice in service to her state and nation.”

Authorities have charged the suspect—identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal—with first-degree murder, two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, and three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News on Nov. 27 that the government plans to bring terrorism charges against him.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told NBC News on Nov. 30 that the suspect may have been radicalized after entering the United States.

“We do believe it was through connections in his home community and state, and we’re going to continue to talk to those who interacted with him, who were his family members, who talk to them,” Noem said.

Lakanwal entered the United States in September 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, the Biden-era resettlement program launched after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Officials say that Lakanwal worked with multiple U.S. government entities, including the CIA, during the war in Afghanistan.

Jacob Burg contributed to this report.