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Home » SOF News » Chris Kyle, Another Brother Lost

Chris Kyle, Another Brother Lost

by Jack Murphy · February 2, 2013 · Posted In: SOF News
Chris Kyle killed
chris-kyleI am saddened to have to announce the tragic loss of another one of our own.  This has been a hard year for the Special Operations community, perhaps the SEAL community most of all.

Today Chris Kyle was shot and killed at a shooting range at the Rough Creek Lodge in Texas, murdered along with a second individual.

Chris had been volunteering his time to help Marine Corps veterans suffering from PTSD and mentoring them.  Part of this process involved taking these veterans to the range where one of them snapped and killed Chris and his neighbor for reasons that remain unknown at this time.  The perpetrator then stole Chris’ vehicle in an attempt to escape but we have received word that the police have since arrested him.

Chris Kyle served as a sniper in the US Navy SEALs and is best known to the American public from writing his memoir, “American Sniper.”  After his service, Chris ran a training program called The Craft.  Although recognized as America’s deadliest sniper, Chris was known to friends as a very down to earth and humble man.  He was also a friend of SOFREP and worked closely with Brandon Webb on a recent project of ours.

I just got off the phone with Brandon who is understandably upset over losing another friend not long after laying Glen Doherty to rest a few months ago.  The entire SOF community is still in shock over this incident, and we will have more to say on the matter as the situation develops.

Right now it is simply the time to have a moment of silence for Chris Kyle and his friend who was murdered alongside him.

This is an episode of the SOFREP TV Series that included our brother Chris.

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EileenHuber
EileenHuber 5pts

Can't wait until this movie comes out!  Now more people will know what a great guy Chris Kyle was.  Thanks for the update.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts

 Former Marine Still Not Indicted in Chris Kyle Slaying 

Texas Rangers say investigation could take "some time" By Scott Gordon |  Tuesday, May 14, 2013  

http://tinyurl.com/a6rjcz3

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

Chris Kyle’s American Sniper Directed by Steven Spielberg

Steven Spielberg has signed on to direct a new movie titled “American Sniper” based on the memoir written by Chris Kyle.  Kyle, or “The Devil of Ramadi”, as the enemy called him, is a Navy SEAL and the deadliest sniper in American history with over 225 claimed kills.

Actor Bradley Cooper will star as Kyle in the Warner Bros. production, slated for release in early 2014.

http://navyseals.com/2353/chris-kyles-american-sniper-directed-by-steven-spielberg/

ACB aka ACS
ACB aka ACS 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

@Txazz I read this a few days ago. Not sure how I feel about this yet. As long as they don't try to fulfill some political agenda through this film,  I think the movie will be pretty good. Since Bradley Cooper is playing Kyle in the movie, he really has some big shoes to fill.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

@ACB aka ACS@Txazz Pray for an epiphany about gun control for Cooper.

Steven Spielberg, Bradley Cooper to team for 'American Sniper'    May 2, 2013

http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-steven-spielberg-bradley-cooper-to-team-on-american-sniper-20130502,0,6075950.story

ACB aka ACS
ACB aka ACS 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

 @Txazz @ACB aka ACS Yeah, I read that article when it came out. This is the one that sent up red flags for me a few months ago. http://insidemovies.ew.com/2013/02/08/bradley-cooper-american-sniper-chris-kyle-biopic/

I thought it was pretty egotistical of Cooper to want to play the part of Kyle, but who knows though, maybe he'll play Kyle great, and maybe he really won't pull any political BS in the movie. Here's to hoping. 

@Recon6 

Recon6
Recon6 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

@Txazz @ACB aka ACS   Tx, not sure Cooper has the physical stature of CK?

CK was a big ol Texas boy....6

Julesy
Julesy 5pts

@Txazz @ACB aka ACS I hope they include the story about the attempted car jacking. If he didn't have his own firearm, he would have been the victim. 

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

Must Watch: Wife of Slain Navy SEAL Chris Kyle Gives Heart-Wrenching Speech at NRA Event 

May. 3, 2013 6:24pm

Before Taya Kyle, the wife of slain Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle, even said a word, the crowd at the National Rifle Association Leadership Forum was on their feet giving her the longest standing ovation of the day. Just before she took the stage, a video honoring Kyle was shown at the Houston event.

http://tinyurl.com/cz948ok 

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

Chris Kyle Facebook  - Official and is kept updated 

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Chris-Kyle/401933139867923

http://imm.io/13rbt

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

Glad Texas and America Feels Differently   April, 2013

In the absence of word from the White House, the good patriots of this country will never forget Chris and his family.

Christopher Scott “Chris” Kyle (April 8, 1974 – February 2, 2013) was a United States Navy SEAL and the most lethal sniper in American military history, with 160 confirmed kills (out of 255 claimed kills), he was shot and killed on February 2, 2013, in Texas.

http://www.texasgopvote.com/issues/restore-families/obama-mourns-film-critic-and-ignores-seal-hero-chris-kyle-005320 

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

'Chris Kyle' bill helps retiring militarySpouses also benefit from licensing bill

Thursday, 21 Mar 2013

KILLEEN, Texas (KXAN) - Texas lawmakers are considering legislation known as the "Chris Kyle Bill." He's the Navy SEAL killed at a North Texas gun range back in February.

The new law would help fast-track law enforcement or other skilled work for retiring service members as well as for their spouses. It’s something Kyle was in the process of doing.

http://www.kxan.com/dpp/news/texas_lege/Chris-Kyle-bill-helps-retiring-military 

(earlier article posted Mar 1, 2013)

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 3 Like

Widow says gun class for teachers fulfills Chris Kyle's dream 

April 6, 2013

KENNEDALE — More than 500 people showed up Saturday for what organizers touted was the largest concealed handgun license seminar in Texas.

http://www.wfaa.com/news/local/tarrant/widow-says-gun-class-for-teachers-fulfills-chris-kyles-dream-201785321.html 

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

'American Sniper' Chris Kyle's widow contributes to his book

 April 15, 2013 

NEW YORK — The widow of Chris Kyle, the former Navy Seal and best-selling author, has contributed a foreword and afterword to a book her husband had been working on at the time of his death.

William Morrow, an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers, announced Monday that Taya Kyle's tribute will be included in "American Gun: A History of the U.S. in Ten Firearms." The book comes out June 4 and was written by Chris Kyle and William Doyle. Chris Kyle's previous work was the million-selling autobiography "American Sniper."

http://www.oregonlive.com/books/index.ssf/2013/04/american_sniper_chris_kyles_wi.html 

LauraKinCA
LauraKinCA 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

@Txazz   That's great to hear. I have mine and a second for my Dad on pre-order.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

@LauraKinCA@TxazzI remember when you pre-ordered it, wayyyy back.

Here's info for others interested in the book:

Chris Kyle's' American Gun: A History of the U.S. in Ten Firearms' - to be released in June

http://blog.usnavyseals.com/2013/04/chris-kyles-american-gun-a-history-of-the-u-s-in-ten-firearms-to-release-in-june.html

Allwet
Allwet 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

@ txazz  

Live fyre is in full patience testing mode LOL.

Always good to hear about the "great big little things" involved in this project.You are as we say.."The Man"

RCF Auction for Good for Kyle and Littlefield families:

Consistent internet is a rare bird overhere....I did at least manage enough "on line time" at the Sekondi Naval base(Ghana) to secure one of the Auction for Good blades to benefit the Kyle and Littlefield families. Strangely enough it was one the ZT blades(ZT 200 Patrol Knife) I have been "eyeballing" for a while, just waiting for some paws on opportunity .....decided this was a good enough reason to overlook that , so with "twilight zone" playing through my head(I did not say Brain LOL!), I "Got'r done". Brandon/RCF strikes again.....

Keep it dry;)

DJ


Txazz
Txazz 5pts

@Allwet  Hey DJ, yepper you sure got'r done and like hearing your got your prize ZT blade.  Wassup up in Ghana - I spent a short time in Kenya a few years back.  Things don't look so hot right now.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

Work on Chris Kyle statue    Posted on March 28, 2013

"The handgun wasn't the correct handgun, so they've replaced the handgun," Ladd said, pointing to the replacement pistol in the clay holster.

Kyle's family also had the artist add stitching on the belt last weekend.

There are a couple other final touches, too. Chris Kyle's two children placed tiny clay teddy bears by his boots.

His widow left a message engraved on a heart, as if it had fallen at his feet. It reads: "My love. My life. I love you always."

http://www.kvue.com/news/slideshows/Work-on-Chris-Kyle-statue-200418091.html 


EileenHuber
EileenHuber 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

@Txazz Can't wait to see the finished product.  I love the additions from Chris's family.  We'll never forget!

Txazz
Txazz 5pts

Sarasota artist's tribute to sniper draws national attention

Thursday, March 14, 2013

SARASOTA - Already overwhelmed by Texas' reception of his tribute to a slain Navy SEAL sniper last weekend, Greg Marra has now drawn the attention of Time magazine.

“It was absolutely overwhelming,” said the 38-year-old sculptor, who was received not only by veterans, but Native Americans and Kyle's survivors. “It was like a spiritual healing. (Widow) Taya (Kyle) even brought her wedding ring so I could hold it and get it right for the statue. The family came in absolutely devastated, but they walked out out with smiles.”

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20130314/ARTICLE/130319795/2055/NEWS?Title=NEW-Sarasota-artist-s-tribute-to-sniper-draws-national-attention

Txazz
Txazz 5pts

Family Working With Sculptor On Chris Kyle Statue

March 9, 2013

It will take about 2-3 months to turn the clay into bronze because it has to be made into molds with 13-major steps in order for the statue to be fully cast in bronze. “It’s a great honor for us to work on it,” says Joe Schaefer, namesake of Schaefer Art Bronze Casting, Inc.

Schaefer says over the years his company has done such exotic castings as an 18-carat gold tennis racket and a 14-carat gold replica of the Titanic. But speaking of the Kyle statue, “As far as importance is concerned, I think it’s probably tops,” adding, “We’ve done a lot of very prestigious things that we’re proud of but this is probably the one that will capture the most attention.”

Marra says the statue has taken a tragedy and hopefully turned it into a positive story. “I believe this statue—and my work—can restore pride in our nation. I think using something as simple as clay and using statues is obviously a powerful thing.”

He still wants to create a memorial for all Navy SEALs. “To properly build statues that will represent our nation as warriors, the best warriors, the best people, the best nation with the oldest constitution in the world.”

And both men are gratified Kyle’s family seems pleased. The family will ultimately decide where the finished statue will be located.

http://dfw.cbslocal.com/2013/03/09/family-working-with-sculptor-on-chris-kyle-statue/

EileenHuber
EileenHuber 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

Thank you to all involved in sharing the videos of the trip to Arlington.  I felt like I was showing respect for Chris Kyle along with everyone else.  God Bless his family.  May they stay strong.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts

Chris Kyle's Wife Views Clay Statue

By Omar Villafranca and Mark Schnyder |  Saturday, Mar 9, 2013

http://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/Chris-Kyles-Wife-Views-Clay-Statue-196647671.html

The widow of slain former Navy SEAL Chris Kyle on Friday saw for the first time the sculpture an artist is creating of her husband.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

Comment:

Carl A Wallin · Bradenton, FloridaMet Kyle's family today wonderful people very humble. they loved the sculpture. the children were there and signed there names on it, then the Cherokee's performed a warrior ceremony.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

The Cherokee nation guided by Chief Grey Wolf is performing a ceremony at Chris Kyles resting place and our statue is near by.

We are switching out the 300 win mag on the statue for a tac50 rifle. I think Chris would be proud of this sculpture because we are showing the armament accurate to what is carried by SEAL snipers.  Once again the huge 50 cal rifle will be on his back not a sling.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Patriots-in-Art-LLC/569743513037919

Chris Kyle Statue Comes Through Austin

A spirit ceremony was held at the Texas State Cemetery, Austin

Thursday, March 7 2013

A huge truck carrying the clay version of the statue rolled into Austin today for a small ceremony at the Texas State Cemetery where Kyle is buried. The native people's "spirit ceremony" was intended to honor the warrior spirit that Kyle embodied. Aaron Pyle, with the Indigenous Cultures Institute says, "Our whole community these days is based largely around the Pow-Wow which in itself is a tradition of honoring the warrior, honoring the protectors of our community."

http://www.keyetv.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/austin-gets-peek-at-new-chris-kyle-statue-7297.shtml

 

Cherokee veterans honored during annual ceremony

http://www.cherokeephoenix.org/Article/Index/6792

 http://www.cherokeephoenix.org/18575/Article.aspx

"These are very tender and sincere emotions we use to honor our veterans," Smith said. "Today we remember those of the past, and we also remember those in our current service and those who will serve our country and our (Cherokee) Nation in the future."

Txazz
Txazz 5pts

Patriot Guard escort from Waxahachie, Tx to Arlington - Flag draped statue

http://vimeo.com/ssgtweasel/chriskylestatue

Patriot Guard and also Texas Motorcycle Cops

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=bP-Y4PRCWBM

Greg Marra: Last night went very well. I met with Chris's lovely wife and children. Taya is in full support of American Patriots in Art's direction. My favorite moment was having Chris's well behaved and intelligent children sign the base of the statue with me.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Patriots-in-Art-LLC/569743513037919

Still huge news in Texas and very emotional.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

Ex-Navy SEAL Tyrone S. Woods: The Man with Zest for Adrenaline

Posted September 19th, 2012 by US Navy SEALs

http://blog.usnavyseals.com/2012/09/ex-navy-seal-tyrone-s-woods-the-man-with-zest-for-adrenaline.html

Ty was Glen's good friend

Woods' sacrifice honored at OCHS assembly

Created on Thursday, 18 October 2012 02:00

http://portlandtribune.com/pt/9-news/121403-woods-sacrifice-honored-at-ochs-assembly

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

Ski Resort Names Run for Navy SEAL Glen Doherty Posted March 7th, 2013 by US Navy SEALs

Posted March 7th, 2013 by US Navy SEALs

Fallen Navy SEAL Glen Doherty was known by friends and family as a man with so many endearing qualities. He was into different sports and one of his passions was skiing. He was skilled in both regular and telemark skis and even worked as a professional ski instructor in Utah. So it means a lot for his loved ones when the ski resort, where he once worked, named a run in Doherty’s honor.

http://blog.usnavyseals.com/

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

Florida Sculptor Creates Former Navy SEAL Chris Kyle’s Statue Posted March 6th, 2013 by US Navy SEALs

March 6, 2013

http://blog.usnavyseals.com/2013/03/florida-sculptor-creates-former-navy-seal-chris-kyles-statue.html

With the creative hands of Greg Marra, a life-size clay replica of Chris Kyle was formed — complete with sunglasses, trimmed beard, and battered cap. The 6-foot-3 sculpture left Marra’s Sarasota studio on Monday, bound for Arlington, in a truck escorted by the Patriot Guard motorcycle club. It is set  for a private screening at Schaefer Art Bronze Casting on Friday, and public viewings will be held Saturday and Sunday, according to Herald-Tribune.

About the sculptor Greg Marra - a 4 page article

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20130304/ARTICLE/130309839/2055/NEWS?Title=Sarasota-artist-designs-Navy-SEAL-statue-

AmericaNeedsHeroes
AmericaNeedsHeroes 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 3 Like

Texas Men, Bigger Than Life... I like that. Chris Kyle surely was one. Very well said, Recon6 (fixin’ an earlier mis-quote, due to sumthin’ blurring my eyes. Sorry 6). Got to wondering today about where his statue will be placed. Thought I'd just wonder out loud for a bit. I imagine Taya will have a say, if not THE say as to where - and that's as it should be. With that in mind, if it's not to be there in town with her and the children, San Antonio has a nice ring to it: maybe BAMC/SAMMC where injured troops and families from every walk of military life can draw strength from it? Or a prominent spot on the River Walk? The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum is an obvious possibility. Arlington National Cemetery...or even on the Mall in D.C. as part of our tradition of military heroes honored there...either one probably a tough fight, but one worth the struggle. Guess if I'm lucky, it'll end up near enough that I can get out to see it every now and again. If needed, I'd be happy to contribute to its completion and placement.

DanStPeter
DanStPeter 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 3 Like

Nice piece and well deserved. May this statue forever immortalize his selfless contributions to our freedoms and the patriotic values which guided this true hero throughout his life. May his families and friends rejoice in the time he gave them, and take solace in the knowledge that they will meet again, in a more peaceful place. Until that time, stay strong, honor Chris's memory and the memories of his fallen brothers in arms. God bless.

dickftr
dickftr 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 3 Like

Even in my easy goin life I live here on the ranch, Chris has infuenced my life. Some because of his book but mostly because of what I saw at the Memorial and what I read here at SOFrep. THANK YOU SOFrep,     Dick

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 3 Like

Texas House debates 'Chris Kyle Bill' to fast-track police jobs for ex-military    March 1, 2013

On Thursday, Taya Kyle went to Austin to hear the first public testimony about a proposal to change Texas law. It would allow military veterans who prove their skills to skip out on certain parts of the police academy, streamlining access to employment.

http://www.kens5.com/news/194378481.html

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

Texas House honors former Navy SEAL Chris Kyle     March 1, 2013

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - The Texas House has unanimously passed a resolution honoring slain former Navy SEAL Chris Kyle.

Widow Taya Kyle was among those who gathered in front of the House. As representatives stood to formally approve the memorial resolution, she softly and briefly clapped her hands.

http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/state&id=9011187

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

After passing a resolution in memory of former U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, slain earlier this month at a North Texas gun range, the Texas House adjourned in his honor this week.

Kyle's wife, Taya, stood on the dais with others and dabbed tears as Rep. Jim Pitts, R-Waxahachie, spoke about her husband Thursday.

Author of the best-seller “American Sniper,” Kyle, 38, was an American hero and the most successful sniper in U.S. history, Pitts said.

“His legacy will be one of selflessness, dedication and honor, and it will not be forgotten,” Pitts said. “People all over the U.S., and even throughout the world, continue to mourn the loss of a man who chose life, whose life was ended all too soon. In a perfect world, we would not be here today, but our world is not a perfect world.”

 

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

CaliGirlinTX posted this letter from Momma Lee in another thread:

Just got this from MoveAmericaForward.org: 

  Debbie Remembers Chris Kyle: American Sniper

  Chris Kyle 

April 8, 1974 - Feb 2, 2013

Chris Kyle, "The Legend" as his teammates nicknamed him, was tragically taken from us on Feb 2, 2013. Chris was the author of American Sniper and was the most lethal sniper in US Military History. As a Navy SEAL Chris was awarded numerous medals including two Silver Stars, and five Bronze Stars with Valor. I was blessed to not only know the warrior Chris was but to experience the complete package of a man balanced with selfless love, compassion and generosity.

Chris is survived by his wife and two children who he deeply loved and cherished.

Along with Chris at the Texas shooting range on February 2, 2013, close friend Chad Littlefield was also murdered and leaves behind a wife and a daughter.

Chris and I began to communicate after the death of my son Marc Alan Lee. I would receive emails and phone calls while Chris was still deployed. I realized that these men who served with Marc were his "brothers" and I adopted/inherited many new "sons." Chris took that role seriously and we became very close, we really were family. So when I received the call that Chris had been killed I was devastated and in shock. I caught the next flight to Texas to be with his family. I have dedicated my life since Marc's death to the troops and especially the families of the fallen. I have been there for too many families who have lost a loved one in combat or related to combat, but this was different. Chris was as close to a son as you could be without birthing them or raising them. Grief was all too familiar and I did not like this. 

Within hours we began to see an amazing out pouring from the patriots in Texas who were deeply moved and had been impacted by Chris. It is still so hard to accept that Chris is no longer with us. I was so blessed to have known Chris and be embraced by him as his "Momma Lee." 

We had about 12,000 to 15,000 attend the services at Cowboy Stadium. The following day the funeral procession traveled 200 miles to bury Chris in Austin at Texas Memorial Cemetery.

We gathered at the Stadium at Midlothian High and were greeted by the Patriot Guard Riders. These riders are life savers, if it wouldn't have been for them at Marc's Memorial Service I would have been arrested for the confrontation that might have ensued when the Westboro wacko's told me "I had failed my son and I sent him to hell" and that "He choose an occupation of murder." Because they attended and sheltered me I didn't see or hear the vile protestor's. They ride for every fallen hero to honor and defend them. One of Marc and Chris' Officers and I got off the bus in the pouring rain to present Challenge Coins to their President and shake the hands of each of those who rode. The funeral processions were led by about 80 riders and then were joined in Waco by about 800 more.

As we left Midlothian people were gathered on the overpasses to honor Chris and show their support. I was amazed as we continued to drive 5 miles away, and yet still people were standing on every single overpass, 25 miles and still every single overpass had people waving flags, saluting, some with signs "RIP Chris Kyle," "Thanks you Chris, you will not be forgotten." This was done in the pouring rain and many of them where there hours before when our advanced team and color guard drove by. Even though I was exhausted and had slept very little the past week, I knew I had to stay awake to see how many miles we would travel before there was an empty overpass. 150 miles.....still every overpass. Many had fire trucks and emergency vehicles, and it wasn't just the overpass, the sides of the freeway had people standing on the shoulder in front of their business, school children stood with hands over their hearts, some people knelt as we went by, many had tears streaming down their cheeks.

As we passed through many of the major cities people were on all three levels of freeways as they laced over the interstate. I remember my heart sinking a little in disappointment as we neared an overpass and no one was there, then as we got closer I saw it was under construction and you couldn't get up there. We traveled 200 miles and EVERY overpass had people paying their respects and honoring Chris. I had never seen anything like this in my life.

Chris hated the spotlight, he was uncomfortable doing book signings, taking pictures, and visiting with people. That wasn't why he wrote American Sniper, he wrote it to honor Marc, Ryan and his teammates. He wanted to give the average American a glimpse into what our troops and their families endure and sacrifice. He gave away all of the proceeds to the book. He wrote the book to challenge people that when they come home our responsibility is "to serve those who served us." 

After Chris and I had been at book signings or in a group of people where he couldn't walk five feet without someone stopping him for a hand shake or autograph, he would say "I hate this part, I am not a people person". Yet if you stopped him even if there was a line a mile long behind you, he would have made you feel that you were the only one and it was sincere. As we drove that 200 miles and I saw all of those people I couldn't help but think, yes son, you are a people person. People all over the world love you.

Chris is buried at an amazing, historic cemetery, and the private burial ceremony attended by family, close friends and teammates will forever be etched in my heart. The cemetery was surrounded three deep on the outside perimeter by the PGR riders and their flags along with who knows how many other patriots.

I stood directly across from the SEALS in formation. My oldest son was on my right and Medal of Honor recipient Mike Thornton on my left, and Chris' casket between the SEALS and I. In front of the casket set Chris family. It was all I could do to not break down when the folded flag was given to Taya, and Chris Mother.

Following SEAL tradition, at the end of Chris'  funeral each SEAL removed his Trident and solemnly  walked to the casket, and then placed his Trident on Chris' casket and with one slam of the fist pounded it in to the casket. It left me speechless and in tears, as it has each time I have witnessed  these brave warriors saying goodbye to one their brothers. Each SEAL then returned to formation and bagpipers played  "Amazing Grace." The SEALs all then gathered around the casket and knelt. If they could reach the casket they place their hand on it, if not they placed their hand on the shoulder of the SEAL in front of them and bowed their heads.

When the bagpipers stopped in deep voices of the Brotherhood, they yelled "HOOYAH, CHRIS KYLE!"

Forever Grateful,

Debbie Lee

Read more: http://sofrep.com/17503/so-a-navy-seal-sniper-is-laid-to-rest/#ixzz2NXa9mfhr

 

bbechtel
bbechtel 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

 @Txazz Thank you Debbie for all your efforts.  I am working hard to get Operation 300 supplied and running.  I am still seeking corporate sponsors and I am confident we will get great sponsors and donors.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 3 Like

Florida Artist Creates Statue of Chris Kyle

http://www.kcentv.com/story/21359094/florida-artist-creates-statue-of-chris-kyle

The artists hopes to have it in North Texas by March 8, 2013.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

DALLAS -

A local military man commissioned a Florida artist to help honor the late former Navy SEAL Chris Kyle.

Gene Sweeney asked Greg Marra to make a bronze statue of Kyle, who was considered the most lethal sniper in American military history.

He and a friend were killed while at a gun range on Feb. 2. Eddie Routh, the accused gunman, is an Iraq war veteran who allegedly suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.

The clay statue was sent to North Texas for bronzing. Once it is finished, Kyle's widow will decide where to place it.

 

 

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

Todd Palin to donate Iron Dog race winnings to Chris Kyle Memorial Fund

Posted at 10:17 am on February 24, 2013

http://twitchy.com/2013/02/24/honor-sarah-palin-tweets-todd-palin-to-donate-iron-dog-race-winnings-to-chris-kyle-memorial-fund/

Todd Palin's Snow Machine has Chris Kyle right on the front.

"Todd's race winnings are donated to The Chris Kyle Memorial Fund. For the kids and me, we're proud of our Iron Dogger, ....." ~ Sarah Palin

ps: I know some folks are not wild about Sarah Palin but, Chris knew and spoke highly of Todd.  They are honoring Chris as they do their thing so let's let them do it.

ps: Scott Davis and Todd Palin rounded out the top five and collected $10,000. They finished at 2:40 p.m. with a trail time of 39:20:33 and an average speed of 54.78 mph.

 

 

Julesy
Julesy 5pts like.author.displayName 1 Like

 @texlax  @Txazz Didn't Chris joking call Todd 'Rambo Palin'? lol

texlax
texlax 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

 @Txazz ps: I know some folks are not wild about Sarah Palin but, Chris knew and spoke highly of Todd.  They are honoring Chris as they do their thing so let's let them do it.

 

Palins and Kyles and many others. I pray GOD blesses them because we need their strengths and attitudes now so much more than before. And in addition I thank them for inspiration provided.

Some people are not wild about anyone that do not share their madness! They simply do not count for anything! C. Kyle and his wife and children struck me as ones that had the "NON Counters" spotted. Ditto the Palins.

Recon6
Recon6 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

@Txazz Thanks Tex, that is an Awesome statue of CK!! Glad to see him receive such a tribute, most deserved...6

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

 @Recon6  @Txazz Yes, 6, Chris was a mighty force in his world and ours.  I am so proud of him and now, Taya . . . and, Texas.

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 2 Like

 @Recon6  @Txazz Texas certainly gave her native son the honor our nation should have given.  Chris is legend and shall stand forever in our halls of heroes.

Recon6
Recon6 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 3 Like

@Txazz He just reminds me so much of what Texas is all about, men who are bigger than life, the Alamo, Sam Houston, Travis, San Jacinto, Chris Kyle all Texas!! I love my Gators and Florida, but damned if Texas isn't frkn Awesome!! Loved living in Houston...6

Txazz
Txazz 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 7 Like

Still Reeling From the Death of Chris Kyle, a SEAL Brother By BRANDON WEBB    Feb 27, 2013   New York Times/War

It’s a strange place I find myself these days, in my late 30s, and faced with the reality of friends, SEAL brothers, lost and gone from my life. The most recent include my friend Chris Kyle, who was killed last month, and Glen Doherty, who died six months earlier. I find myself often rereading saved e-mails from the guys because they give me comfort and an occasion for a much-needed laugh or cry, and I’m not afraid to admit the latter.

http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/02/27/still-reeling-from-the-death-of-chris-kyle-a-seal-brother/

CJCJ
CJCJ 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 3 Like

 @Txazz 

 

Chief,

 

What a beautiful tribute. 

 

Today the moral high ground is yours.

 

Well done.

 

 

FEBRUARY 27, 2013, 8:00 AM

 

Still Reeling From the Death of Chris Kyle, a SEAL Brother

 

By BRANDON WEBB

 

"It’s a strange place I find myself these days, in my late 30s, and faced with the reality of friends, SEAL brothers, lost and gone from my life. The most recent include my friend Chris Kyle, who was killed last month, and Glen Doherty, who died six months earlier. I find myself often rereading saved e-mails from the guys because they give me comfort and an occasion for a much-needed laugh or cry, and I’m not afraid to admit the latter.

I spent a decade on SEAL teams and made some of my closest friends there. My generation of SEALs has seen at least 50 members killed in Iraq or Afghanistan, possibly more than any generation since Vietnam. This has affected me, and I struggle to explain it to people. Think about six close friends and imagine them all dead and gone in the span of a few years. These guys were irreplaceable, and they have left huge holes in my life that will not be filled anytime soon.

I first met Chris when he was a new guy on probation in SEAL Team 3. I instantly knew he would go on to do important things. A few years later when I was an instructor and course manager for the SEAL sniper program, Chris and I got to know each other better. I became his friend when we filmed a series on my Web site, sofrep.com, called “Inside The Team Room.” He agreed to do the show for free because he believed in what we were doing, which was to highlight the sacrifice of American war fighters and their families.

We would often kid each other via text about our media appearances. I probably gave him too much of a hard time for his appearance on NBC’s “Stars Earn Stripes.” He called me one night upset that he was getting a lot of heat from our community over the show, saying that he did it to raise awareness of veteran causes and not to make money. I believed him and respected him more for it.

I think Chris and I both shared the struggle of military to civilian transition. We left the teams on top of our game, as chief petty officers with many career opportunities open to us. But we chose family first and left many people scratching their heads at our decisions. We spoke of this often in our short communications.

Chris took no pleasure in taking lives as a sniper, and he doesn’t deserve the criticism that some, including Representative Ron Paul of Texas, have leveled at him. He did what his country asked of him, and did it well. His family also sacrificed greatly and deserved a moment of dignity in his death. As citizens we all share some responsibility for what this country does to defend and protect its borders.

After life in the SEALs, Chris donated profits from his book, “American Sniper,” to a charity started by the mother of a fallen teammate, Marc Lee, America’s Mighty Warriors.

Chris could have lived his life in privacy and comfort, yet he recognized that veterans who needed help the most were slipping through the bureaucracy of the Department of Veterans Affairs. He chose to continue serving his country, by helping one veteran at a time. And he died doing just that: aiding a troubled veteran.

I managed to avoid the funerals of six teammates. But I stopped avoiding them when Glen was killed in Benghazi, Libya, in September. And I dropped everything to pay my respects to Chris, his family and the great state of Texas.

I flew into Dallas early Monday morning, and rushed to catch a taxi to Cowboys Stadium, arriving just in time for the memorial to start. I was amazed to see the thousands of people who showed up to pay homage to Chris. After the memorial, I met up with a fellow SEAL, Drago, a Polish immigrant. In America, he joined the Navy and went through SEAL training in his 30s. At the memorial, he delivered a wreath from our Polish Special Operations brothers, the GROM, who served with Chris in Iraq. We embraced outside the stadium, each knowing the gravity of the loss in the way those who have served and lost close friends know.

The next day, Drago and I shared the three-hour drive to Austin, where a private funeral service took place at a state cemetery. We were running late and were pulled over for doing 100 m.p.h. in what must have been the tiniest rental car on the lot. We looked ridiculous in that little car, but the Texas state trooper let us go once he found out where we were headed.

In Austin, we had only to follow the people lining the streets with American flags to find our way to the funeral. It was an unusually gorgeous and warm Texas winter day, and we both fell into formation with the active and retired SEALs in attendance. I don’t know how many of the guys were at the service, but it took the better part of an hour for all of us to pound our SEAL Tridents firmly into Chris’s coffin. It’s a new tradition that I’d rather not have to observe again.

Afterward, the SEALs gathered around Chris, taking a knee, and clasping each other while “Amazing Grace” played on the sound system. I found myself overcome with grief, but also a strange joy, as I wept in the presence and comfort of the brotherhood. When the song ended, a designated SEAL called out a firm and loud, “CHRIS … KYLE!” In unison, we thundered back, “HOOYAH CHRIS KYLE!” so loudly that I think we could be heard miles away.

Chris had clearly found peace and purpose being with his family and helping veterans, his new mission in life. He is a true hero, and I’m proud to call him my friend."

 

 

Brandon Webb is a former Navy SEAL, author of a memoir, “The Red Circle,” and editor in chief of Sofrep (Special Operations Forces Report).

AmericaNeedsHeroes
AmericaNeedsHeroes 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 3 Like

 @CJCJ  @Txazz

“CHRIS … KYLE!” 

“HOOYAH CHRIS KYLE!”

 

I heard it from my spot at the fence. 

I heard it yesterday.

I hear it right now, ringing out, tugging at my heart.

I'll be hearing it for years to come. 

 

As someone who never Chris, reading your words, Chief, I feel I know him a little better.

Thank you, sir, and your friends and brothers, for sharing so much that must be so very personal to you.

 

oldSquid
oldSquid 5pts like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName like.author.displayName 4 Like

 @Txazz

 WoW. all I can say.

 

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