Army - Providence, RI - August 26, 2025

Michael Verardo (February 16, 1985 - August 26, 2025) lived a life defined by courage, devotion, and quiet, unwavering strength. Michael came of age in the years following September 11th while attending high school in Rhode Island. It was there he set two intentions that would shape his life: to serve his country in the United States Army and to win the heart of his high school classmate, Sarah - who would later become his wife.

Determined to serve, Michael endured multiple surgeries to meet the physical requirements for enlistment, ultimately earning his place in the 82nd Airborne Division as an infantryman and paratrooper. In April 2010, while deployed to Afghanistan with Bravo Company, 2-508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, he was severely wounded in an IED attack. Refusing to leave his unit, he returned to combat and was subsequently injured again in a second blast, sustaining catastrophic wounds. It was this deployment where Michael earned his two Purple Hearts. 

Against overwhelming odds, Michael survived and went on to live fifteen remarkable years after his "Alive Day." During that time, he built a full and meaningful life with his wife, Sarah, and their three young daughters, Grace, Mary Scott, and Elizabeth. Despite enduring more than 120 surgeries, he became a powerful advocate for wounded veterans, working with national leaders to drive lasting policy change and helping secure safe passage to the United States for thousands of Afghan interpreters.

Michael's legacy is one of action over words. Through his resilience, leadership, and example, he inspired countless others to serve, to persevere, and to give more of themselves. He is remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud paratrooper, and a man who embodied the very best of those who serve.

Michael died at home as a result of his combat injuries in August of 2025. He completed his final mission and earned his eternal rest.