Remembering Chief Kyle

by
posted on January 8, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
keefe2015_fs.jpg

"American Sniper" has been released in a few select theaters. The television and airwaves are alive with images from this remarkable Clint Eastwood film. "American Sniper" is the story of a remarkable American. Chief Petty Officer Chris Kyleused his rifle to save his fellow American servicemen in combat against our nation's enemies. Despite his heroism on the battlefield, Chief Kyle was murdered by a very troubled young man. His funeral at the Dallas Cowboy's Texas stadium was one of the largest such events ever held, with a procession thatstretched 200 miles. A fewyears ago we ran a story by Maj. John L. Plaster (U.S. Army, Ret.) about Chief Kyle's exploits on the battlefield. Before heading to the movie theater this weekend, I strongly recommend taking time to read this story.

undefinedChief Kyle wasn't just a trigger puller; he was a gun guy. And an American patriot. And a man who had an appreciation for the place firearms hold in American Freedom. Think Chris Kyle was just a knuckle dragger? Then I suggest you read this story on the American longrifle that he did for his book, "American Gun."

It shows great understanding of firearms and perspective of how firearms earned American freedom. We published the article after Chief Kyle's death with the knowledge and approval of his widow, Taya Kyle. She, too, is a remarkable American, and I defy you to watch her entire speech at the NRA Annual Meetings two years ago without tears coming to your eyes. A foundation has been set up to benefit the Kyle family and others who served our nation so nobly. To find out more about the Chris Kyle Frog Foundation, go to chriskylefrog.com. Often, Hollywood actors are confused with heroes; through "American Sniper," though, Hollywood honors a real one and his memory.

Latest

Fiocchi’s new Hyperformance SBR Enhanced line of ammunition
Fiocchi’s new Hyperformance SBR Enhanced line of ammunition

Selling Short: Fiocchi's Hyperformance SBR Enhanced Ammunition

Fiocchi’s new Hyperformance SBR Enhanced line of ammunition isn’t a mere marketing gimmick. It’s designed for top performance out of short-barreled rifles, and it delivers.

New For 2026: Yankee Hill Machine Victra-20 Shotgun Suppressor

Yankee Hill Machine introduced its VICTRA-12, a modular 12-ga. shotgun suppressor, last year. This year, the company is bringing out a 20-ga. version with the VICTRA-20.

The Armed Citizen® June 22, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Important Notice To Members: Exercise Your Rights. Assist In The Nomination Of Directors.

The NRA Bylaws provide for the election of one-third of the members of the Board of Directors each year. Those terms of office will expire at the 2027 Annual Meeting of Members in Atlanta, Georgia, on April 24, 2027.

Skills Check: Pistol Standard Xray 2 Drill

Examine and strengthen each part of your presentation and shot in this revealing drill.

Gunsite at 50: Celebrating a Golden Anniversary

It’s no secret Gunsite Academy is celebrating its Golden Anniversary this year. In August, it’s holding a 50th Anniversary Alumni Shoot to celebrate five decades of training excellence, tradition and community.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.