Trump to award Charlie Kirk Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously: ‘We will have a very big crowd’

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that conservative activist Charlie Kirk will be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Trump announced during his remarks at the Pentagon on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Kirk was shot in Utah on Wednesday while speaking at an event.

Donald Trump honors Charlie Kirk during 9/11 Pentagon remarks

During his speech, President Trump addressed the nation’s grief over Charlie Kirk’s killing.

“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 in his remarks.

He also extended his thoughts to Kirk’s family. “Our prayers are with his wonderful wife, Erika, and his beautiful children — fantastic people they are. 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,” Trump continued.

Charlie Kirk to receive nation’s highest civilian honor

Trump confirmed that Kirk will be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, though no date has been set.

Announcing his decision, Trump said, “I can only guarantee you one thing: We will have a very big crowd, very, very big.”

He added that he planned to speak with Kirk’s family later Thursday after returning to the White House.

Vice President JD Vance and his wife also traveled to Utah on Thursday to meet with the family of Charlie Kirk.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recalls Charlie Kirk’s faith and courage

Before Trump’s remarks, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reflected on Kirk’s life and death.

“The life, example and even death of Christ follower and American patriot, Charlie Kirk, give me hope,” Hegseth said. “Sheer courage, no matter the arena.”

“Charlie we love you, we know that you have heard the Lord’s words. Well done, good and faithful servant,” Hegseth added.

He concluded his tribute by saying, “Like those on 9/11, he will never be forgotten.”

On Thursday night, the FBI in Salt Lake City released the first photos of a “person of interest” in the shooting. Officials asked for the public’s help in identifying the individual, who they believe may be linked to Kirk’s shooting.

In the press conference earlier, the FBI said the shooter was a "college-age" and said they had recovered a bolt-action rifle from a wooded area.

Internet hails Trump for announcing highest civilian honor on Charlie Kirk

Online, many praised Trump’s decision to bestow the nation’s highest civilian honor on Kirk.

“Charlie Kirk was a good and faithful servant. Thank you, Mr President!” Rep Nancy Mace wrote in her reaction.

Others echoed similar thoughts. “Good, he is ever-so deserving,” one user wrote on X.

Another added, “Rightfully so a good news in these days of mourning.”

“Big honor,” one more expressed.

"All Charlie Kirk did was have a respectful dialogue with people he disagreed with," wrote another.

Another said, “This is great news. He really deserves it.”

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.