Trump To Honour Charlie Kirk With Nation's Highest Civilian Award Presidential Medal Of Freedom Posthumously

Washington: US President Donald Trump has announced the Presidential Medal of Freedom to conservative activist Charlie Kirk posthumously. Speaking at the Pentagon, Trump declared that the prestigious honour would be bestowed upon Kirk. The Presidential Medal of Freedom stands as the United States' highest civilian accolade, conferred by presidents upon those who have made noteworthy impacts across a spectrum of fields, including culture, public service, and more.

The Medal of Freedom is a symbol of the highest civilian recognition in the US, honouring the achievements of recipients in service to the nation and humanity. The announcement brings to mind Trump's previous gestures of recognition during his first term in office, when he bestowed the Medal of Freedom upon several notable figures. Among those honoured was Rush Limbaugh, the late conservative commentator and radio personality known for his outspoken views and wide-ranging influence. 

Donald Trump, while speaking at a ceremony outside the Pentagon marking the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, stated, "I can only guarantee you one thing: That will have a very big crowd." He described Kirk as a close ally and an inspiration as he opened his address at the ceremony by remembering Charlie Kirk. 

"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….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 asserted. 

Right-wing political commentator and conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot in the neck on Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University. Following the incident, the Utah Valley University spokesperson stated that Kirk was around 20 minutes into his presentation when he was shot. 

The spokesperson also confirmed that Kirk was only shot during the shooting and at the event. 

Video footage also surfaced, wherein students were captured fleeing from the scene after the shooting incident. 

Later, FBI Director Kash Patel, in a post on X, said, "We are closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly, and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation."

The law enforcement agencies are not searching for the shooter. The FBI has released the first pictures of the attacker and asked the citizens for support in finding the accused.

Further details are awaited.