What Happened
The parents of Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old National Guard member who was killed in an ambush-style attack in Washington, D.C., are set to attend President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday. Beckstrom was shot on November 26, 2025, and succumbed to her injuries on Thanksgiving Day. She was one of two members of the West Virginia National Guard targeted in the attack.
Why It Matters
Beckstrom’s parents, Evalea and Gary Beckstrom, are attending as special guests, highlighting the ongoing issues of political violence and security. The invitation comes as President Trump plans to address topics such as immigration and homeland security during his speech. The suspected shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, has been charged with murder, emphasizing the serious implications of such violent acts.
What’s Next
During the State of the Union address, President Trump is expected to acknowledge the Beckstrom family and discuss the broader context of violence against service members. This event marks a significant moment for the family as they seek to honor their daughter’s memory amidst national discussions on security and violence.
