It is with tremendous pride and great honor that the Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival announces Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe as the 2026 Grand Marshal! 

With this year's theme, "From Our Orchards to Your Family... An All-American Celebration," we couldn't imagine a more fitting choice.

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A true hometown hero, Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe was born and raised in Berkeley County and proudly serves our nation as a member of the 167th Air National Guard. Andrew is the son of Berkeley County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Jason Wolfe and Berkeley County educator Melody Wolfe.

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Andrew's story is one of extraordinary courage, sacrifice, faith, and resilience. While serving on duty protecting our nation's capital, he was critically wounded after being shot in the line of duty. What followed was a recovery that many have described as nothing short of miraculous.

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From the very beginning, the Wolfe family's only request was simple: Pray. That call to prayer united not only our local community but people across the nation, as countless individuals lifted Andrew up in hope and faith. His journey became a powerful reminder of the strength that can be found in courage, community, and God's grace.

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In recognition of his extraordinary bravery and selfless service, Andrew was personally presented the Purple Heart by President Donald J. Trump during the State of the Union Address in February. Most recently, he was also awarded the U.S. Marshals Service Purple Heart for the injuries he sustained while serving on the Operation Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force. On June 27, he was further honored with the Freedom 250: Hometown Hero Award by the U.S. Department of Justice. These distinguished honors reflect not only his courage in the face of unimaginable adversity, but also the inspiration he is to communities across our nation.

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Today, Andrew continues to inspire others through his unwavering determination and servant's heart. His dedication to our country, his remarkable resilience, and his love for his hometown embody the very spirit of this year's festival and America's 250th anniversary.

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The Grand Marshal is one of the Festival's highest honors, recognizing an individual whose character, leadership, and service inspire our community. There is no one more deserving of this recognition than Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate one of Berkeley County's own.

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