In a chilling escalation of violence against American service members, two National Guardsmen were critically injured in a terrorist attack near the White House on Wednesday afternoon.
The assailants were identified as Andrew Wolfe, 24, and Sarah Beckstrom, 20, members of the West Virginia National Guard, who had only been sworn into duty a day prior.
They were deployed to Washington, D.C. to bolster security just as the nation prepared for the Thanksgiving holiday.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro reported that the shooting was a “premeditated” assault targeting members of the military, underscoring the escalating risks faced by our soldiers even while they perform domestic duties.
The 29-year-old shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national residing in the U.S. illegally after his visa expired, is now under investigation as authorities grapple with the implications of his attack.
Lakanwal entered the United States as part of the Biden administration's “Operation Allies Welcome,” established following the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. Tragically, it appears that an individual once considered an ally has turned against those who protect American freedoms.
Eyewitness accounts detail a shocking firefight in broad daylight, raising urgent questions about public safety and immigration policies.
Pirro emphasized the bravery of Wolfe and Beckstrom, highlighting their voluntary commitment to serve a city they weren’t familiar with.
Many are calling for a reevaluation of our immigration policies to ensure that those seeking refuge in our country are not being granted access at the cost of national security.
President Donald Trump remarked on the incident, labeling it “an act of evil” and directing the Defense Secretary to deploy additional National Guard members to D.C. to enhance the security presence.
In a statement reflecting his administration's commitment to national safety, Trump vowed to reassess the immigration protocols that allowed Lakanwal potentially safe passage onto American soil.
With the shockwaves of this incident still reverberating, Vice President JD Vance urged prayers for the injured service members, reminding the nation of the critical sacrifices made by U.S. military personnel.
This tragic event serves as a stark wake-up call that the apprehensions surrounding U.S. immigration policies and domestic security are not merely theoretical but can have immediate, life-threatening consequences.
As we reflect on this incident, may we come together in solidarity and support for our service members, advocating for policies that prioritize their safety and honor their selfless dedication to protecting our country.
Sources:
thegatewaypundit.comjustthenews.comamericafirstreport.com