U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday (September 11) he would award Charlie Kirk the Medal of Freedom, a day after the conservative activist was fatally shot during an appearance in Utah.

Kirk, a 31-year-old podcast-radio commentator and a close ally of Trump, is credited with helping build the Republican Party's support among younger voters. He was killed on Wednesday by a single gunshot in what Trump called a "heinous assassination."

Trump made the comment during a 9/11 ceremony at the Pentagon.

September 11 marks the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the United States, when nearly 3,000 people were killed when hijacked jetliners crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field in Pennsylvania on September 11, 2001.

DESCRIPCIÓN DE IMÁGENES

SHOWS: ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA, UNITED STATES (SEPTEMBER 11, 2025) (UNRESTRICTED POOL – Access all):

1. U.S. PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP AND U.S. FIRST LADY MELANIA TRUMP AT CEREMONY MARKING THE 24TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SEPTEMBER 11, 2001

2. TRUMP WALKING TOWARDS PODIUM

3. WHITE FLASH

4. (SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP, SAYING:

“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. 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. I am pleased to announce that I will soon be awarding Charlie Kirk posthumously the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The date of the ceremony will be announced, and I can only guarantee you one thing, that we will have a very big crowd.”