BREAKING: In a heartfelt tribute, President Donald Trump honors Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Verardo, who passed away at age 40 due to complications from injuries sustained in Afghanistan. Verardo, celebrated as a “true American Hero,” died on Tuesday, leaving behind a legacy that transformed the lives of countless wounded veterans.
Trump’s tribute on Truth Social emphasized Verardo’s remarkable courage and sacrifice, stating, “Michael’s Legacy of Resilience, and Sarah’s Selfless Dedication, will forever inspire us.” Verardo’s story is not just one of personal sacrifice but also of impactful change, as he co-founded the Independence Fund’s Trackchair Initiative, which has provided over 2,000 all-terrain Trackchairs to veterans facing severe disabilities.
Verardo suffered catastrophic injuries on April 24, 2010, when he stepped on an IED while serving in Afghanistan’s Arghandab River Valley. The explosion resulted in the loss of his left leg and severe damage to his left arm, alongside a traumatic brain injury. Despite enduring 120 surgeries over the years, Verardo chose to commemorate April 24 as his “Alive Day,” focusing on what he had instead of what he lost.
His wife, Sarah Verardo, has been a steadfast advocate for wounded warriors, launching the Trackchair initiative with the help of Fox News viewers, raising millions for the cause. She expressed her heartbreak in an emotional Instagram post, stating, “It was the honor of my lifetime to be his wife. He fought the good fight every single day.”
Verardo’s legacy also includes significant community recognition, with North Carolina declaring April 24 as Wounded Heroes Day. His journey has inspired many, showcasing the diverse forms of triumph in recovery. “Some amputees run races on prosthetics, but for others, a victory is simply making it through another day,” Sarah noted.
The community is invited to pay their respects as Michael Verardo is laid to rest with full military honors on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Weddington Methodist Church in North Carolina. His story exemplifies the enduring spirit of service and the ongoing challenges faced by veterans.
As the nation mourns, Verardo’s impact continues to resonate, reminding us to honor our heroes well beyond the battlefield. His fight may be over, but his legacy will inspire a new generation of Americans to support and uplift wounded veterans.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
