Michael Verardo, otherwise known simply as “Mike”, has sadly passed, aged 40. His passing leaves behind a legacy of courage and resilience.
Mike was a very proud member of the U.S. Army. He served in the U.S. Army in the 82nd Airborne Division. Mike, during his 2010 deployment to Afghanistan, was critically injured by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), which led to the loss of his left leg and arm.
After his injury, Mike’s spirit was never broken, undergoing hundreds of surgeries and years of rehabilitation.

His wife, Sarah, was by his side all through the period of his trial, proving her love and the meaning of “in sickness and in health.” They both founded the Independence Fund to help injured veterans, which shows their love and dedication to their countrymen.
His legacy will surely live on, as many would remember him as a relentless advocate for veterans. More importantly, his legacy would live on in the hearts of his wife and children.
At the time of writing this article, his family is organizing a memorial service that will be held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, in Weddington, North Carolina, to honor his life and legacy.
