Governor Patrick Morrisey awarded the West Virginia Distinguished Service Medal posthumously to Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia Army National Guard on Mar. 14, honoring her service and sacrifice.
The ceremony, held in Charleston and attended by members of the West Virginia National Guard and Beckstrom’s family, recognized Specialist Beckstrom’s dedication. Governor Morrisey presented the medal to her parents, Evalea and Gary Beckstrom.
“Today we honor a daughter of West Virginia who answered the call to serve and gave everything in the line of duty,” said Governor Morrisey. “Specialist Sarah Beckstrom wore the uniform with pride and represented the very best of our state. While no recognition can ever repay the sacrifice she made or the loss felt by her family, this medal stands as a symbol of our deep gratitude and the lasting respect of the people of West Virginia.”
Beckstrom served with the 863rd Military Police Company based in Glen Jean and was assigned to the Safe & Beautiful Task Force in Washington, D.C. She was fatally wounded last November while serving in Washington.
The West Virginia Distinguished Service Medal was established by the state legislature in 1939. It is awarded to members of the West Virginia National Guard for conspicuous or distinguished service in duty, including posthumous recognition for extraordinary service.
