Charlie Kirk was an exceptional young man. A true leader and faithful Christian, he had a vision from a very young age to bring a very important message to his contemporaries designed to counter the Marxist hatred being peddled on campuses. He spoke to his peers with honest and sincere concern about the trajectory of our country. He was an educator, yet he never spoke down to his audience. He was a moral leader for his generation, leading from a God centered perspective yet never approached preaching. His conversations were important for the fabric of the nation. He was dedicated to the truth and his deep-seated beliefs. That is why he was silenced and assassinated.
We had the honor of hosting a meeting and presentation in 2014 in Montana when Charlie was 19 in years old. In 2013, he had already been politically involved, though not on a stage of his own. He told me how he wanted to attend my alma mater at West Point. His vision for the college age youth of the country was compelling and his enthusiasm was contagious. I became one of the first members of the Turning Point USA Board of Directors and assisting him in launching his dream through obtaining his first big donor – Foster Friess for $1,000,000. We then sponsored an event in 2020 at the start of Covid in Kalispell, Montana. Over 500 Patriots attended this special evening for him. He delivered a marvelous message. The picture below.
Charlie’s life was taken too soon in a senseless act of terrorism. His beautiful wife, Erika and their two young children are now left without Charlie. Knowing the man Charlie was, it is unfathomable how she will be able to find her way forward without the lion of a man she married and being by her side. Erika will rely heavily on her faith, knowing Charlie is safe in the loving embrace of God. She will need the support of the Turning Point family, their families and the prayers of all who grieve for her loss. We also grieve for this country. America lost a great leader who touched the heart of the nation with nothing more than words and faith.
Charlie had a way of speaking to people that was unique to him. His analysis of the future presented to college and high school students provided a pathway for their educational pursuits. We should all embrace his concerns and give voice to the next generation. Charlie saw many of the youth and students disenfranchised to some degree with little hope of ever being able to afford a life style of their parents. Charlie offered hope and direction in a world that had lost its way. We will miss you dearly, Charlie. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of Americans.
Paul and Muffin Vallely
9.11.2025
