Just one month has passed since the tragic loss of Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed at Utah Valley University. His devoted wife, Erika Kirk, has stepped forward to lead his non-profit organization, Talking Point USA. Recently, Erika found herself at the White House as her late husband, Charlie, was honored posthumously with the Medal of Freedom by President Trump. During the ceremony, Erika delivered a poignant and emotional speech, sharing her daughter’s touching birthday message to her father.
The death of Charlie Kirk on September 10 sent shockwaves across the nation. Hundreds of thousands gathered in Glendale, Arizona, to pay their respects to the influential conservative activist. Charlie leaves behind his loving wife, Erika, and their two children.
In the wake of this tragedy, Erika has been vocal about her grief and determination. Taking on the role of CEO for Turning Point USA, she honors Charlie’s vision and commitment.
After taking some time away from the public eye, Erika returned on a memorable Tuesday at the White House’s Rose Garden. There, President Donald Trump presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Charlie Kirk’s family posthumously.
President Trump, speaking in heartfelt terms about Kirk, emphasized his bravery and commitment to liberty. “Today, we’re here to honor a man unlike any other—a symbol of fearless leadership for freedom, and a beloved patriot. Remembering Charlie Kirk on this National Day of Remembrance and awarding him the honor he’s rightly earned,” Trump declared.
He continued, saying that Charlie’s assassination was a “vicious and senseless act of violence.”
A Posthumous Honor for Charlie Kirk
“Charlie was taken from us too soon for standing boldly in truth and striving for a stronger America,” Trump added, acknowledging Kirk’s status as a “martyr.”
Erika Kirk accepted the Medal of Freedom for Charlie, coinciding with what would have been his 32nd birthday. In her moving tribute, Erika expressed gratitude to Donald Trump for this recognition.
“The Presidential Medal of Freedom is a testament to America’s enduring value of liberty,” she shared. “Embedded in our Constitution, this sacred promise of liberty is bestowed by God. It is more than ink on paper.”
Offering a personal glimpse into their life, Erika spoke about Charlie’s passion for freedom. She shared tender memories of their special birthday practice of sharing mint chocolate chip ice cream, enjoyed only on his birthday and the Fourth of July.
The Heartfelt Note from Daughter to Father
In a moment of deep emotion, Erika discussed her beloved husband’s memory. She conveyed her daughter Gigi’s sincere birthday note intended for Charlie.
“Happy birthday, daddy. I want to give you a stuffed animal. I want you to enjoy a cupcake with ice cream. And have a birthday surprise. I love you.”
Stuffed animals held a cherished place in the relationship between Charlie and Gigi. Charlie had a special tradition of taking one of Gigi’s toys with him whenever he appeared on his show.
“It was a small token of their bond,” Erika recounted some weeks ago. “Charlie treasured it because it was a way to have a piece of her presence with him.”
We remember Charlie Kirk with fondness and admiration.
