WASHINGTON (AP) — On Tuesday, President Donald Trump awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk in a ceremony that coincided with what would have been Kirk's 32nd birthday. Kirk was assassinated last month while addressing a crowd at Utah Valley University. This marks the first Medal of Freedom awarded in Trump's second term and underscores the deep ties between Kirk and the Trump administration. Trump, who earlier called Kirk a 'great American hero,' emphasized his commitment to supporting young conservatives. The ceremony took place in the Rose Garden, moved from the East Room to accommodate a larger crowd. The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established by President John F. Kennedy to honor significant contributions to national interests and world peace.