Americans were horrified this week when longtime conservative activist Charlie Kirk was brutally gunned down while speaking at an event in Utah.

In response, President Donald Trump has confirmed that Kirk will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. 

Trump calls Kirk "a champion of liberty"

According to Fox News, the president made the announcement while speaking at a 9/11 memorial event outside of the Pentagon on Thursday.

"Let me express the horror and grief so many Americans at the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk," the president told those in attendance.

"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 they are. We miss him greatly," Trump lamented.

"I will soon be awarding Charlie Kirk posthumously, the Presidential Medal of Freedom," Trump declared. "The day of the ceremony will be announced, and I can only guarantee you one thing. That we will have a very big crowd. Very, very big."

"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," the president stressed.

Secretary of War hails Kirk as a "Christ follower"

Fox News noted that Secretary of War Pete Hegseth also made reference to Kirk while commemorating the sacrifice of military personnel and first responders.

"The young soldiers who take the oath give me hope. The young cops who wear the badge give me hope. The young firefighters answered the call. Give me hope," Hegseth stated.

"The young agents who patrol our border give me hope. The life example and even death of Christ follower, American patriot Charlie Kirk give me hope," the Secretary of War asserted.

"Sheer courage, no matter the arena. Charlie, we love you know that you have heard the Lord's words. Well done, good and faithful servant. Full heart, clear eyes," he added.

FBI reveals new details on assassination

Fox News also reported that the FBI revealed new details on Thursday regarding Kirk's assassination, including the weapon that was used.

"I can tell you that we have recovered what we believe is the weapon that was used in yesterday's shooting. It is a high-powered bolt action rifle," FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls was quoted as saying.

"That rifle was recovered in a wooded area where the shooter had fled. So the FBI laboratory will be analyzing this weapon," Bohls explained. "Investigators have also collected footwear impressions, a palm print and forearm imprints for analysis."