SW Hegseth Honors Army Vet Michael Verardo At ANC

November 25, 2025

November 19, 2025 - Secretary of War (SW) Pete Hegseth honors U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Verardo during his funeral service in Section 57 of Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia. Michael Verardo's wife, Sarah Verardo, received the U.S. flag from her husband’s funeral service.

Verardo served in the 82nd Airborne Division as an infantryman and paratrooper. In April 2010, Verardo was wounded in two IED attacks while serving in Afghanistan which resulted in him becoming one of the most catastrophically wounded soldiers of the Global War on Terror. Verardo underwent more than 100 surgeries because of his injuries from these attacks. Despite this, Verardo lived for another 15 years and became a staunch advocate for wounded veterans.

On August 26, 2025, Verardo passed due to complications from his 2010 injuries. His military awards include the Purple Heart w/ oak leaf cluster, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal.