On November 19, 2025, a solemn yet celebratory atmosphere filled Arlington National Cemetery as U.S. Army Sergeant Michael Verardo was laid to rest with full military honors. The ceremony, attended by family, friends, and fellow service members, underscored the national significance of Verardo’s life and service. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Verardo enlisted in the U.S. Army and deployed to Afghanistan in 2010, where he faced life-changing challenges. Two IED attacks left him with severe injuries, including the loss of his left leg, extensive burns, traumatic brain injury, and internal damage. Despite these setbacks, Verardo’s determination and resilience became the defining aspects of his military and personal journey.
Following his recovery, which spanned over 15 years and more than 120 surgeries, Verardo and his wife, Sarah Conklin, devoted themselves to improving care for severely wounded service members. Together, they helped found the Independence Fund, an organization that has delivered over 2,700 mobility solutions, such as Track Chairs, to veterans from the Vietnam War to the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. This initiative has restored independence and quality of life for countless veterans and their families, embodying Verardo’s belief in service beyond the battlefield. His legacy is not only in the lives he directly impacted but also in the continued efforts of those inspired by his courage.
The funeral ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, which took place under a gray sky, was marked by a powerful invocation by Rev. Dr. Terry Moore and a tribute from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. Hegseth emphasized Verardo’s unwavering commitment to service, stating that his greatest strength was not in the physical victories of war but in his determination to return to his unit, even after being severely injured. This ethos of sacrifice and service resonated deeply with those in attendance, highlighting how Verardo’s life became a symbol of the broader military community’s resilience and dedication. President Donald Trump also acknowledged Verardo’s contributions, recognizing his role as a national hero and his influence on the Independence Fund’s mission.
As Sarah Verardo noted in a previous interview, their shared journey was an honor, and their dedication to service continues to shape the lives of many veterans. Verardo’s headstone, placed to face the Washington Monument, symbolizes the enduring presence of those who have fought for the nation’s freedom. His funeral marked not just the end of his life but the ongoing impact of his story and the values he embodied. Through the Independence Fund and countless veterans, the legacy of Sergeant Michael Verardo remains a testament to the enduring spirit of service and sacrifice.