US President Donald Trump has hailed Charlie Kirk as an “American hero” and “martyr” during his memorial service.
According to Al Jazeera, thousands of people on Sunday, September 21, gathered at State Farm Stadium in Glendale to attend the memorial service of the right-wing activist Kirk, who was shot dead earlier this month.
The stadium that has seats for more than 63,000 people was packed with the Turning Point USA founder’s supporters who gathered to pay tribute to Kirk following his assassination at the Utah Valley University.
Prominent figures including US President, Vice President JD Vance, Elon Musk and several Republicans attended the emotional memorial, which was named “Building a Legacy: Remembering Charlie Kirk” by Turning Point USA.
Trump, during his address, called Kirk an “American martyr” and said, “He’s a martyr now for America’s freedom. I know I speak for everyone here today when I say that none of us will ever forget Charlie. And neither now will history.”
“He did not hate his opponents, he wanted the best for them. That’s where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponents, and I don’t want the best for them, I’m sorry,” the 79-year-old added.
Meanwhile, Kirk’s widow, Erika, delivered a teary speech and said that she is forgiving the “young” gunman, Tylor Robinson.
Trump also announced that he will award Kirk the highest civilian honour, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
