The memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk concluded in a moment that left the audience both tearful and inspired: a heartfelt embrace between former President Donald Trump and Charlie’s widow, Erika Kirk.

In his tribute, Trump spoke of the astonishing reach of Kirk’s legacy. “In the days since Charlie’s death, we have seen how his legacy has touched so many millions around the world,” he said. From Calgary, Canada—where thousands gathered at city hall to sing the American national anthem—to Seoul, South Korea, where crowds waved American flags and declared, “We are for Charlie Kirk,” the movement Kirk began resonated far beyond U.S. borders. Vigils and gatherings took place across Berlin, Warsaw, Vienna, Sydney, Madrid, London, Tel Aviv, and countless other cities.

Erika Kirk makes hand gesture at Charlie Kirk's photo after hugging Trump:  What does it mean? | Hindustan Times

Trump highlighted a story from rural Australia, where a man texted his pastor: “I’m going to come to church tomorrow for the first time ever.” When asked why, the man simply replied: “Because of Charlie Kirk.”

“The lesson of Charlie’s life is that you should never underestimate what one person can do with a good heart, a righteous cause, a cheerful spirit, and the will to fight, fight, fight,” Trump told mourners. He praised Kirk’s transformation of a small idea—challenging liberal narratives on college campuses—into a global movement that “changed history.”

Trump has Erika Kirk join him on stage after Charlie Kirk memorial speech

“Today, Charlie rests in glory in heaven for all eternity,” Trump said, drawing long applause from the audience. “He has gone from speaking on campuses in Wisconsin to kneeling at the throne of God where he is right now.”

The former President also reminded attendees that Kirk’s organization, Turning Point USA, would continue under Erika’s leadership. “Under the leadership and love of Erika, it will become bigger and better and stronger than ever before,” he declared.

MSNBC hosts react to President Trump and Erika Kirk's remarks at Charlie  Kirk's memorial

At the close of his remarks, Trump invited Erika to join him on stage. As she walked out to applause, the two shared a powerful embrace—a moment that symbolized both mourning and hope for the future of Kirk’s movement.

The service ended with patriotic music and a standing ovation, as thousands in attendance rose to honor the memory of a man who, in Trump’s words, “believed in values we should all believe in—faith, freedom, and the will to save our country.”