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U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey of the Northern District of West Virginia has announced that Air National Guard Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe has received the inaugural Freedom 250: Hometown Hero Award. This new distinction, sponsored by the Department of Justice, is being presented in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The award ceremony took place at the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, where U.S. Attorney Harvey presented the honor to Staff Sergeant Wolfe.
The award recognizes Staff Sergeant Wolfe’s courageous actions and sacrifice. On November 26, 2025, while on duty in the nation’s capital, Staff Sergeant Wolfe and U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom were the targets of an ambush-style shooting perpetrated by an Afghan national. Staff Sergeant Wolfe, a resident of the Northern District of West Virginia at the time of the incident, sustained injuries but has since been recovering in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. Tragically, Specialist Beckstrom succumbed to her injuries sustained during the attack. In recognition of their bravery and sacrifice, President Donald J. Trump awarded Staff Sergeant Wolfe the Purple Heart on February 24, 2026, and posthumously awarded the Purple Heart to Specialist Beckstrom.
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The Freedom 250: Hometown Hero Award was established specifically to commemorate the United States’ 250th birthday. The Department of Justice created this award to honor law enforcement officers nationwide for their extraordinary service and dedication to their communities and the nation. The recognition of Staff Sergeant Wolfe highlights his bravery, patriotism, and sacrifice during a critical incident, underscoring the significant contributions of service members in protecting the country.
This award signifies the Department of Justice’s commitment to acknowledging and celebrating the actions of individuals who demonstrate exceptional courage and commitment to public service, particularly during nationally significant observances.
Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of West Virginia
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