Brad Keselowski's Checkered Flag Foundation honors SGT Michael Verardo during Coca Cola 600
This past Memorial Day weekend, the legacy of SGT Michael Verardo was honored on one of NASCAR’s biggest stages as RFK Racing continued its longstanding commitment to recognizing America’s Veterans and fallen heroes.
As part of the Checkered Flag Foundation’s “Tribute to Veterans” initiative, Michael’s name was featured on an RFK Racing vehicle during the race weekend, serving as a powerful reminder of service, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of those who have defended our country.
Founded by NASCAR champion Brad Keselowski, the Checkered Flag Foundation created the Tribute to Veterans program to honor military members, Veterans, caregivers, and military families by displaying their names on race cars competing at some of NASCAR’s most iconic tracks. The initiative has grown into a nationally recognized tradition that connects the racing community with the military community in a deeply personal way.
Michael’s story embodies the resilience and courage this program was designed to recognize.
An Army paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division, Michael sustained catastrophic injuries during combat operations in Afghanistan in 2010. Despite enduring amputations, burns, and more than 120 surgeries over the following 15 years, he continued to advocate for wounded Veterans, inspire others through his example, and dedicate himself to his family and fellow service members.
Michael died on August 26, 2025, as a result of his combat injuries. He is survived by his wife, Sarah, and their three daughters: Grace, Mary Scott, and Elizabeth.
For The Independence Fund and the Warfighter community, seeing Michael honored during Memorial Day weekend carried profound meaning. His life reflected the spirit of service, perseverance, and brotherhood that continues to unite Veterans and supporters across the country.
The weekend also highlighted the support of Hickory Tavern, a proud partner of The Independence Fund, which sponsored the No. 41 car during the race weekend. Through its Freedom Burger campaign, Hickory Tavern donates $1 from every burger sold to programs serving Veterans, caregivers, and their families, helping provide critical support and resources to those who have sacrificed for our nation.
Memorial Day is about remembering those who gave everything in service to America. Through partnerships like these and initiatives like Tribute to Veterans, the stories of heroes like Michael Verardo continue to be seen, remembered, and honored by millions.
The Independence Fund is grateful to RFK Racing, the Checkered Flag Foundation, and Hickory Tavern for helping ensure Michael’s legacy lives on, both on and off the track.
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