Purple Heart Recipient Sgt. Michael Verardo Laid to Rest at Arlington
ARLINGTON, Va. — November 19, 2025 — Under a gray sky on Wednesday, family, friends, and fellow service members gathered at Arlington National Cemetery to lay to rest U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Verardo, a Purple Heart recipient and veteran advocate who endured catastrophic injuries sustained in Afghanistan.
Verardo, a paratrooper who survived two improvised explosive device (IED) blasts and underwent 120 surgeries over 15 years, was remembered as a patriot, husband, and father whose courage outlasted every injury he suffered. His story resonated deeply with lawmakers, veterans, and military families, highlighting not only his battlefield bravery but also his dedication to serving others through his work with the Independence Fund.
The Independence Fund, which Verardo helped champion, has restored mobility to more than 2,700 severely wounded veterans, transforming his long recovery into a mission of service. The funeral ceremony opened with an invocation from Rev. Dr. Terry Moore, who said, “Today is a sacred day, for we have joined together to honor a true hero — a hero to his country, his family, a husband, a father and a friend.”
He continued, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down his life for his friends. But most importantly, Michael Verardo was a child of God… His spirit rests in the arms of a loving God.”
Soldiers from the U.S. Army Band, “Pershing’s Own,” the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), and the Caisson Detachment conducted full military funeral honors. They carried Verardo’s flag-draped casket to Section 57, Grave 2113, where a rifle volley was fired, followed by a lone bugler playing “Taps.” The folded American flag was then presented to Verardo’s widow, Sarah Verardo, “as a symbol of appreciation” from a grateful nation. The ceremony concluded with “Amazing Grace” played on the bagpipes.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth offered condolences to the Verardo family following the service, underscoring the profound impact Sgt. Verardo had on the veteran community.
Background
Sgt. Michael Verardo was among the most catastrophically wounded heroes of the post-9/11 generation. His injuries, sustained in Afghanistan, led to a grueling 15-year recovery involving 120 surgeries. Despite these challenges, Verardo dedicated himself to veteran advocacy, focusing on improving the lives of severely wounded service members. His work with the Independence Fund has been instrumental in providing mobility devices and support to thousands of veterans, embodying resilience and selflessness.
Why It Matters
The funeral of Sgt. Michael Verardo at Arlington National Cemetery serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and the ongoing challenges faced by wounded veterans. Verardo’s life and legacy highlight the importance of veteran support organizations like the Independence Fund, which play a critical role in helping injured veterans regain independence and quality of life. His story also underscores the enduring spirit of those who serve, inspiring continued commitment from the nation to honor and assist its military heroes.
As the nation reflects on Sgt. Verardo’s service and advocacy, his legacy will continue to influence veteran care policies and community support efforts, ensuring that those who sacrifice for their country receive the dignity and assistance they deserve.
Source: Original Report
Leave a Reply