President Donald Trump is paying tribute to Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Verardo, a Purple Heart recipient and one of the most severely injured heroes of the Afghanistan war. Verardo, who died at 40 on Tuesday, was recognized for his extraordinary sacrifice and his lasting impact on the lives of wounded veterans. His death has prompted a renewed focus on the resilience of service members and their families, with President Trump praising his heroism and the legacy he left behind.
Verardo’s story is a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of military personnel and their families. On April 24, 2010, while serving in Afghanistan’s Arghandab River Valley, Verardo stepped on an IED, which claimed his left leg, severely damaged his left arm, caused extensive burns, and inflicted a traumatic brain injury. Despite multiple instances of flatlining—where his heart stopped and he lost consciousness—he survived thanks to the skill of medical teams and his own determination. This day, April 24, is now known as Verardo’s ‘Alive Day,’ a symbol of his focus on the positives of life rather than the losses he faced.
Following his initial injuries, Verardo endured an arduous recovery process, undergoing over 120 surgeries at Walter Reed and Brooke Army Medical Center. His resilience was matched by his unwavering support from his wife, Sarah Conklin, a high school sweetheart who had been by his side throughout his recovery. Their marriage, which took place in 2013, was a celebration of love and endurance. The couple’s three daughters are a source of pride, and Sarah has often spoken about the profound unseen challenges that Verardo faced after the IED attack.