Trump Awards Top US Civilian Honour to Charlie Kirk: Presidential Medal of Freedom

On the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, former US President Donald Trump announced that slain right-wing activist Charlie Kirk will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. It is the highest civilian honour in the United States, which was announced by the President at the Pentagon’s ceremony. There, he delivered a tribute to victims of the 2001 tragedy and also praised Kirk’s “unwavering loyalty” to the MAGA movement.

President Donald Trump has announced that he will posthumously honor Charlie Kirk with the Presidential Medal of Freedom pic.twitter.com/VlLmlRIkqi

— America (@america) September 11, 2025

What was Trump’s Speech and Social Media Tribute?

Trump praised Kirk as a “warrior of light who defended freedom and the American dream” in his remarks. He recalled their friendship, saying Kirk was among a select few who joined him for rounds of golf at Mar-a-Lago.

On his Truth Social account, Trump added:
“Charlie Kirk gave everything to the cause of liberty and patriotism. By awarding him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, his voice will never be silenced.”

Why Charlie Kirk?

Charlie Kirk, who passed away earlier this year on September 10, 2025, was the founder of Turning Point USA, a student-led conservative organisation that reshaped youth engagement in politics.  Further, he became a recognisable media personality by frequenting conservative talk shows and writing extensively on issues ranging from education reform to free-market economics.

Unlike many activists, Kirk built his following among young voters, making him a valuable ally for Trump during the 2016 and 2020 campaigns. His untimely death has left a void in the conservative movement, which Trump acknowledged in his speech.

Notable Highlights of Kirk’s Career:

A few of his achievements include the following: 

• Founder of Turning Point USA in 2012, expanding it into a nationwide student network.

• Vocal supporter of Trump’s presidential campaigns.

• Regular speaker at conservative conferences and rallies.

• Promoted school choice, lower taxes, and limited government.

Also Read: What is the Presidential Medal of Freedom? Check Here!

The Significance of the Medal of Freedom

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honour in the United States. It recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the country’s culture, security, peace, or public service.

Past Recipients Include:

By placing Kirk among the names mentioned in the table below, Trump is signalling the activist’s enduring influence on American political discourse. A few of the past recipients include the following: 

 Source: White House Archives 

What are the Public and Political Reactions?

The announcement quickly trended online under hashtags such as #TrumpMedalOfFreedom, #CharlieKirk, #MAGA, and #TurningPointUSA. While Trump loyalists applauded the decision, critics argued that awarding the medal posthumously to a partisan figure highlighted the political nature of Trump’s choices.

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