Andrew Wolfe Injuries: National Guardsman Honored with Purple Heart Amid Recovery
Feb. 25, 2026 — Washington, D.C. President Donald Trump awarded the Purple Heart to Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, a 24-year-old member of the West Virginia Air National Guard, during the State of the Union address, recognizing the Andrew Wolfe injuries from a November 26, 2025, ambush-style shooting near Farragut Square Metro Station.
Wolfe sustained a critical gunshot wound to the head while patrolling as part of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Mission with the 167th Force Support Squadron. Fellow Guardsman Spc. Sarah Beckstrom was killed in the attack, attributed to suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal.[2]
Initial Response and Treatment
Wolfe was airlifted to MedStar Washington Hospital Center for emergency surgery to control bleeding and relieve brain pressure. By December 12, 2025, he was breathing on his own and standing with assistance, transitioning to inpatient rehabilitation.
“Sixteen days ago, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe was airlifted to MedStar Washington Hospital Center with a critical gunshot wound to the head… He is now breathing on his own and can stand with assistance—important milestones that reflect his strength and determination,” said neurosurgeon Jeffrey Mai, MD.
His parents, Melody and Jason Wolfe, described his progress as “miraculous” and thanked supporters for prayers.
Recovery from Andrew Wolfe Injuries
As of late January 2026, Wolfe showed significant improvement from the Andrew Wolfe injuries despite ongoing aphasia, a language disorder impairing speech production while comprehension remained intact. He progressed from non-verbal to using FaceTime, recalling memories, laughing, and gaining independence after six weeks in inpatient rehab.[5]
Mother Melody Wolfe shared via Facebook:
“Physically, Andy has healed really well… The surgery is routine and will allow for even more independence and recovery. Some things that have brought me so much hope are hearing his laugh, seeing him do things independently, and his desire to spend time with family and friends.”
He is scheduled for routine cranioplasty skull reconstruction in early March 2026 before residential rehab for 8-12 weeks.[2]
“We know there are some hurdles ahead but we can see some light at the end of the tunnel,” Melody Wolfe said.
Legal Developments
Lakanwal faces federal charges for Beckstrom’s killing and the Andrew Wolfe injuries, per U.S. DOJ.
Wolfe’s Purple Heart, presented by Maj. Gen. James D. Seward, honors service under Trump’s crime-fighting initiative. Beckstrom received a posthumous award. Recent X posts include prayers for his continued recovery from the Andrew Wolfe injuries.
