President Donald Trump is set to posthumously award conservative firebrand Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Tuesday, October 14, which would have marked Kirk’s 32nd birthday.

The award — the nation’s highest civilian honor — will be presented in recognition of Kirk’s legacy as a leading voice among young conservatives and founder of Turning Point USA. The ceremony follows Kirk’s tragic death on September 10, when he was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University, during the opening event of his American Comeback Tour — a college speaking series aimed at sparking debate on divisive national issues.

President Trump, who first announced Kirk’s death later that same day, described him as “a giant of his generation” and vowed to honor him with the Medal of Freedom. On Friday, the president confirmed he would cut short his Middle East trip, where he had been celebrating a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, to return to Washington for the ceremony.

“It’s the greatest honor,” Trump said. “And Erika, his beautiful wife, is going to be here, and a lot of people are gonna be here.” He referred to Kirk as “a friend of mine, a friend of all of us.”

The House and Senate had previously passed a resolution to designate October 14 as a National Day of Remembrance in honor of Kirk’s contributions.

Kirk’s memorial service in Arizona drew tens of thousands of mourners, including top Trump allies and administration officials. In a powerful moment, President Trump and Erika Kirk embraced on stage, following her moving tribute in which she said she had forgiven her husband’s killer.

Kirk was widely regarded as instrumental in mobilizing young conservatives and energizing the MAGA base on college campuses nationwide. Through his media appearances, activism, and leadership of Turning Point USA, he built a prominent platform that shaped Republican youth politics during and after Trump’s first presidency.

While beloved by many on the right, Kirk’s stances on gun rights, LGBTQ issues, and race sparked heated backlash from liberal circles and civil rights advocates. Still, Trump and his supporters say Kirk’s steadfast commitment to conservative values made him one of the most influential voices of his generation.

The Medal of Freedom ceremony is expected to feature remarks from President Trump and members of the Kirk family, alongside tributes from political and cultural figures aligned with Kirk’s legacy.