President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he will posthumously award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated in Utah on Wednesday.

Speaking at a Pentagon 9/11 observance, Trump expressed deep grief over Kirk’s death. “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,” he said.

“Our prayers are with his wonderful wife, Erika, and his beautiful children — fantastic people they are,” Trump added. “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.”

While the date for the award has not been set, Trump promised a large turnout: “I can only guarantee you one thing: We will have a very big crowd, very, very big.”

On his way back to the White House, Trump said he planned to speak with Kirk’s family later Thursday. Vice President JD Vance and his wife are traveling to Utah to meet the family.

Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA, a conservative organization active on over 3,000 high school and college campuses, engaging young people in political activism. Trump has appeared at several Turning Point events both during his campaign and presidency.

At 31, Kirk was a prominent conservative media figure, hosting “The Charlie Kirk Show,” authoring several books, and maintaining close ties with Trump, JD Vance, and the Trump family. He also spoke at Trump’s 2020 and 2024 nominating conventions, the latter occurring just days after an assassination attempt on Trump.

Trump first broke news of Kirk’s death on social media, prompting mourning from White House officials, conservative politicians, and personalities nationwide.