Trump Awards Charlie Kirk Posthumously with US’s Highest Civilian Honour

On 11 September 2025, President Donald Trump announced that Charlie Kirk will be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States’ highest civilian honour. The announcement came during a 9/11 remembrance event held at the Pentagon.


Kirk, aged 31, was fatally shot the previous day while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, during a public event. Trump described him as a “giant of his generation,” “a champion of liberty,” and an inspiration to millions.


The date for the award ceremony has not yet been set, but Trump indicated it will draw a “very big crowd.” Kirk is survived by his wife, Erika Frantzve, and their two young children.


Kirk co-founded the conservative youth organisation Turning Point USA at just 18 and was a prominent figure in conservative political activism, particularly on college campuses. The move to grant him the Medal of Freedom reflects his close alignment with Trump’s political sphere and the influence he wielded among younger conservatives.


The announcement has provoked a wide range of public reaction, with supporters mourning Kirk’s death and lauding the honour, while critics caution about the symbolism of the award given the political climate.

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