Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk’s memorial in Arizona on Sunday drew thousands, including top conservative figures, Trump administration allies, and grieving family members who hailed him as both a “warrior” and a “martyr.”

Kirk was remembered for leading a movement among young conservatives, fearlessly debating critics, and standing firm even under constant threats. In one of the most moving moments of the service, Erika Kirk, his widow, declared she forgives the man accused of killing her husband.

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Charlie Kirk’s emotional memorial service

Before Donald Trump took the stage, Erika Kirk delivered a moving and deeply personal tribute to her late husband. Erika is set to take over the Turning Point USA CEO role, promising to keep her husband’s mission alive. “He gave everything he had every single day,” Erika said, her voice steady but heavy with grief. “Charlie left this world with work still to be done, but not with unfinished business.

She recalled breaking down when she saw her husband in the hospital after the shooting, yet found comfort in knowing he did not suffer. Tens of thousands sat in silence as she spoke, breaking into applause when she mentioned that Charlie’s supporters had chosen peace over rioting.

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Erika quoted Jesus on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” She then added, “I forgive him because it is what Christ did,” without naming the suspect. Her voice broke as she reminded the audience that Charlie’s purpose was to save young men from resentment, anger, and hate. “He wanted to save young men, just like the one who took his life,” she continued.

Erika closed by vowing to lead Turning Point USA as its new CEO and board chair. “The world needs a group that will point young people away from misery and sin,” she said. “And I promise you today, every part of our work will only grow stronger.”

Trump, Vance vow Charlie Kirk’s mission will not die with him

President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and senior officials promised Sunday that Charlie Kirk’s work would not fade after his assassination, but only grow stronger.

Vice President JD Vance, who had accompanied Charlie’s body home on Air Force Two, urged supporters to honour his legacy through action. “For Charlie, we will rebuild this United States of America to greatness. For Charlie, we will never shrink, never cower, and never falter, even when staring down the barrel of a gun,” Vance declared, CNN reported.

Vance told the crowd, “The murderer who took Charlie from us expected a funeral today. Instead, we’ve had a revival and a celebration of Charlie Kirk and his Lord, Jesus Christ.”

“He’s bigger now than ever before. And he’s eternal,” Trump said, announcing that Kirk would be given the Presidential Medal of Freedom.