Abbott Establishes “Chris Kyle Day” for “American Sniper”

Chris Kyle, the retired Navy SEAL depicted in the blockbuster movie "American Sniper," will have a day in his honor two years after being killed.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed a proclamation declaring Monday as "Chris Kyle Day" in Texas, where Kyle was raised and lived after serving in Iraq.

“By proclaiming today, February 2, 2015, as Chris Kyle Day, I recognize — as Chief Petty Officer Kyle would insist — that he is the face of a larger force for freedom that has made this country the bravest, strongest and freest in the history of the world. Kyle is one of the legions of valiant warriors who made the ultimate commitment to our country: they put their lives on the line for a cause greater than themselves. They faced risks few Americans can comprehend, but all Americans should honor. So many Texans like Kyle have served with unmatched honor, bravery and heroism, and a grateful country is better because of them,” Abbott said Monday.

Kyle is reputed to be the deadliest sniper in American history. Actor Bradley Cooper plays him in a movie based on Kyle's autobiography, "American Sniper," which has made nearly $250 million in theaters.

Kyle and another man were fatally shot in February 2013 at a North Texas gun range. The trial of the suspected gunman, a fellow veteran believed to have mental health issues, starts this month.

Contact Us