At Charlie Kirk’s memorial in Arizona, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth gave a tribute that cut straight to the core of who Charlie was—not just a political fighter, but a man of deep faith. “Charlie Kirk was a true believer,” Hegseth declared, “for the cause of freedom, for the power of young people, a belief in our republic and our founding principles, in America First and Make America Great Again.”

Yes, Charlie was a conservative warrior, but Hegseth reminded the crowd that what truly set him apart was his acceptance of Christ. “Only Christ is King, our Lord and Savior. Our sins are washed away by the blood of Jesus.” It was faith first, politics second.

Hegseth laid out what Charlie always understood: the battle raging in America isn’t just political or cultural—it’s spiritual. “Faith and family first, there is a God, and as Charlie would say, it is not us. We’re sinners saved only by grace in need of the gospel.” Imagine if more leaders spoke that kind of truth instead of hiding behind empty slogans.

He also reminded everyone that while conservatives have long argued for smaller government, Charlie added the missing piece: “We also needed a lot more God.” That’s the kind of clarity this movement needs—and why Charlie’s influence won’t fade.

Hegseth closed with a message that echoed through the stadium: “Well done, good and faithful servant, Charlie. We’ll take it from here. God bless.”

Charlie Kirk may be gone, but thanks to leaders like Hegseth carrying the torch, his mission—faith, freedom, and America First—burns brighter than ever.