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

Icarry S&W 386 Night Guard 1
Icarry S&W 386 Night Guard 1

I Carry: Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard in an ANR Design Holster

In our latest "I Carry" setup, we're featuring the Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard in an ANR Design holster, and we've got a Streamlight EDC flashlight to round out our kit.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 23, 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.

Saltstone Integrator Rifle Carry System & Modular Hunting Vest: The Cure for The Common Sling

Among a hunter’s most basic equipment is their sling. The Saltstone Integrator Rifle Carry System and Modular Hunting Vest seeks to revolutionize this.

Interview: ATF Director Cekada on Suppressors

ATF Director Cekada explains the ATF's guidance (and potential legal pitfalls) of buying suppressors.

Steyr Goes LTT: The Langdon Tactical ATD

Langdon Tactical Technology is in the business of fine-tuning a number of popular handguns on the market, and the company's latest offering is based on the recently introduced Steyr Arms ATD.

Smith & Wesson Acquires Savage Arms

In a stock and cash transaction valued at $160 million, Smith & Wesson announced it has acquired Savage Arms.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.