Parents of Slain National Guard Member to Attend State of the Union

The parents of Sarah Beckstrom, the young National Guard member slain in a recent ambush, will attend President Trump’s upcoming State of the Union address. This poignant moment occurs just months after their daughter was killed while on duty in Washington, D.C., a day before Thanksgiving.

Details Surrounding the Tragic Event

Sarah Beckstrom, aged 20, was patrolling the streets when she was fatally shot on November 26. She served with the 863rd Military Police Company, part of the 111th Engineer Brigade. Before her deployment, she worked at a behavioral health agency, supporting individuals at risk of psychiatric hospitalization.

At the State of the Union, Trump plans to recognize Beckstrom’s parents, Evalea and Gary Beckstrom. He aims to highlight issues of security, particularly regarding the nation’s borders.

Guest Spotlight: Dalilah Coleman

An additional guest at the address will be 7-year-old Dalilah Coleman. She suffered critical injuries from a six-car pileup in California, allegedly caused by an undocumented truck driver. The incident occurred when Dalilah was just 5 years old, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and multiple fractures.

• Injuries: Fractured skull, broken femur, traumatic brain injury.
• Accident Date: When Dalilah was 5 years old.
• Driver’s Status: Partap Singh, an undocumented immigrant, with a valid California license.
• ICE Involvement: Singh was taken into custody in August 2025.

Dalilah remains nonverbal and has diplegic cerebral palsy but is in recovery following her traumatic experience.

Legal Proceedings and Background

The shooter in the incident involving Beckstrom and Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe has been identified as an Afghan national. This individual has faced multiple charges, including first-degree murder. The case has drawn significant attention due to the nature of the assault.

Wolfe, aged 24, is currently recovering from surgery after the ambush. The incident reflects ongoing concerns regarding safety and security both domestically and on the nation’s borders. President Trump has expressed dismay at these violent occurrences, emphasizing the need for legislative action.

As the State of the Union approaches, the stories of Sarah Beckstrom and Dalilah Coleman serve as vital reminders of the human impact underlying broader security discussions.