Donald Trump to award Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously to Charlie Kirk

President Donald Trump announced on September 11 that he will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously to conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated in Utah on Wednesday. The announcement came during Trump’s remarks at the Pentagon to commemorate the 9/11 attacks.

“Before we begin, let me express the horror and grief so many Americans at the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk have felt. Charlie was a giant of his generation, a champion of liberty and an inspiration to millions and millions of people,” Trump said at the start of his remarks.

“Our prayers are with his wonderful wife, Erika, and his beautiful children — fantastic people they are,” Trump added. “We miss him greatly, yet I have no doubt that Charlie’s voice and the courage he put into the hearts of countless people, especially young people, will live on.”

Announcing his intention to award Kirk the medal, Trump said a date had not yet been determined but promised, “I can only guarantee you one thing: We will have a very big crowd, very, very big.”

On his way back to the White House, Trump told reporters he planned to speak with Kirk’s family later in the day. Vice President JD Vance and his wife are also traveling to Utah to meet with the family.

Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA, a powerful conservative youth movement that has built a presence on more than 3,000 high school and college campuses nationwide. The organisation has become a leading platform for conservative voices, often featuring prominent Republican politicians, including Trump, who has addressed its events both as president and as a candidate.

Kirk’s death in Utah

Charlie Kirk, 31, was fatally shot on Wednesday while speaking at a conservative event on a college campus in Utah. Authorities said the attack appeared to be targeted, sparking widespread outrage across the political spectrum.

Law enforcement officials are continuing their investigation, and security at political gatherings has since been tightened. Kirk’s death has been mourned by allies, students, and political leaders, many of whom described him as one of the most influential conservative activists of his generation.