Honoring Retired Army Sgt. Michael Belardo
On Tuesday, Retired Army Sgt. Michael Belardo, a veteran who faced severe injuries after 9/11, was laid to rest with full military honors at Weddington Methodist Church in North Carolina. Family, friends, members of the Sky Tro Forces from the 82nd Airborne Division, and national leaders gathered to pay tribute to a man whose resilience made a significant impact on many lives.
Belardo was profoundly injured during his service, but his commitment to life and purpose resonated through those who spoke in his honor. Fox News’ Jennifer Griffin expressed her sorrow, recalling a powerful memory of standing on her prosthetic leg to honor the flag—something Belardo always did with pride. “Michael stood tall, always paying tribute to the flag,” Griffin shared.
The tribute included reflections on a day that epitomized his spirit. Griffin described how, during a chaotic evacuation from Afghanistan, Belardo welcomed his translator and his family, demonstrating his unwavering determination. In 2010, Belardo lost his left leg and arm to an improvised explosive device, sustaining severe burns and traumatic brain injuries. Initially, he was declared “dead” by medics, yet he defied the odds, waking from a coma and undergoing more than 120 surgeries.
At Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Belardo spent years recovering, relearning how to walk with prosthetics while also inspiring fellow wounded veterans. He eventually married his high school sweetheart, Sarah, and they built a beautiful family together.
Belardo was thrilled to be a father, affectionately called “Gigi” by his daughters, Grace, Mary Scott, and Elizabeth. Sarah attempted to bridge her family’s experiences by writing a children’s book about the invisible scars of war.
During the ceremony, their eldest daughter, now 11, stood before the crowd, speaking proudly of her father. “I’m proud of my dad because he fought so hard for us. He never gave up,” Gigi expressed, adding, “If I could speak to him right now, I would just say thank you for being my father. I love you.”
Despite facing his own battles, Belardo was dedicated to uplifting others. He, along with Sarah, advocated for the Independence Fund’s Truck Chair Program, which provided aid to wounded warriors, allowing them a semblance of mobility and purpose. His journey became a testament to how sacrifice can transform into hope for others.
Those who attended the service recognized Belardo’s dedication. “He came home after his first injury, but not Mike,” noted Sen. Tom Tillis. “His mission was to recover, raise his family, and help others.” Former Vice President Mike Pence also praised his unwavering faith and courage, which inspired all who met him.
The sanctuary overflowed with Belardo’s comrades and family members. Colonel Armstrong conveyed to his daughters that their father exemplified the best qualities in humanity, remarking on the rarity of their gathering.
As Sarah bid her farewell, she recounted the vows made as the American flag adorned her husband’s casket. “When the flag was placed over him, I promised Michael that I would love you forever,” she said emotionally. “Every hour of my life will be a living testament for you.”
Sergeant Michael Belardo’s life was marked by sacrifice, courage, and commitment. His legacy will continue to thrive through his family and the brotherhood of his fellow soldiers.
In her poignant farewell, Sarah captured his essence perfectly: “Michael, you did it. You fought the bad guys, finished the race, and completed the mission. I’ll take it from here. I love you.”
