American Sniper

Chris Kyle | Biography

United States Navy SEAL sniper

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 18, 2025

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Who is Chris Kyle?

Chris Kyle was a renowned U.S. Navy SEAL sniper, born on April 8, 1974, in Odessa, Texas. His journey into military service began in 1999 when he enlisted in the Navy and soon gained entry into the prestigious SEALs. Over a decade-long career, Kyle completed four deployments to Iraq, becoming one of the most lethal snipers in U.S. military history. He claimed to have killed 160 targets, a record that garnered him the nickname “The Devil of Ramadi.” His military precision and exceptional marksmanship earned him multiple honors, including two Silver Stars and five Bronze Stars, solidifying his reputation as a legend among elite military operatives.

Following his retirement in 2009, Chris Kyle transitioned to civilian life while continuing to impact the veteran community. He authored the bestselling autobiography "American Sniper," which later inspired a Hollywood film directed by Clint Eastwood, featuring Bradley Cooper as Kyle. The book and film not only depicted his experiences in combat but also highlighted his struggles and triumphs in life after the military. Kyle also co-founded the FITCO Cares Foundation to support wounded veterans with fitness equipment, emphasizing his commitment to aiding those who served alongside him. Despite the fame he garnered, his life came to an untimely end when he was murdered in 2013 at a shooting range in Texas.

Early Life and Education

Christopher Scott Kyle was born on April 8, 1974, in Odessa, Texas, to a family rooted in strong values, with his father serving as a church deacon. Growing up on a ranch, Kyle developed a deep love for the outdoors, particularly enjoying activities such as hunting deer and pheasant. His childhood was infused with adventure as he participated in various rodeo events, including bronco busting contests, showcasing his adventurous spirit and affinity for physically demanding challenges.

Kyle pursued higher education at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas, where he studied agriculture for two years. However, his passion for the military, which had been a lifelong interest, prompted him to leave college and seek a career in the Navy. In 1999, Chris Kyle took a significant step toward his destiny by enlisting in the Navy, where he soon earned a place in the prestigious SEALs, thus beginning his remarkable journey in military service.

Military Life: Journey to Becoming a Navy SEAL

Chris Kyle's military career began when he joined the Navy in 1999, driven by a lifelong interest in the military. After successfully navigating a rigorous selection process, he was admitted to the Navy SEALs, the elite special operations unit renowned for its demanding training and high-stakes missions. Kyle quickly distinguished himself through his exceptional marksmanship and tactical skills, earning him a reputation as one of the most effective snipers in U.S. military history. His adventures included four combat deployments to Iraq, during which he faced intense combat conditions and honed his ability to operate in complex environments.

During his ten years of service, Kyle's skills as a sniper garnered significant recognition, both from his fellow soldiers and adversaries. He was known as “The Devil of Ramadi,” a name that underscored the fear he instilled in insurgents, who even placed a $20,000 bounty on his head. Despite the dangers, Kyle possessed remarkable patience and composure, leading him to claim more than 160 confirmed kills—unofficially the highest number for a U.S. military sniper. His military accolades included multiple awards of the Silver Star and five Bronze Stars, solidifying his legacy as a formidable force on the battlefield.

Post-Military Years: Author and Philanthropist

After leaving the military in 2009, Chris Kyle embraced various opportunities that came his way, largely fueled by the success of his bestselling autobiography, *American Sniper*. The book, which documented his experiences as a sniper in Iraq, catapulted him into the public eye and allowed him to connect with audiences across the country. His imposing presence and humble demeanor personified the archetype of a military hero, leading to invitations on numerous talk shows and participation in the reality television competition, *Stars Earn Stripes*. Kyle’s story resonated with many, reinforcing the respect and admiration Americans held for their servicemen.

In addition to his writing and media endeavors, Kyle was deeply committed to giving back to fellow veterans. He co-founded the FITCO Cares Foundation, an organization dedicated to supplying fitness equipment to wounded veterans, demonstrating his belief in the healing power of physical fitness. His passion for firearms persisted beyond his military service, culminating in the establishment of Craft International, a security company he created to address personal and professional security needs. This multifaceted life after the Navy showed that Kyle was not only a lethal sniper but also a dedicated advocate for veterans and an entrepreneur with a mission to support others.

Murder and Aftermath: Tragic End to a Hero

Chris Kyle's life was tragically cut short on February 2, 2013, when he and his friend Chad Littlefield were shot at a gun range near Fort Worth, Texas. The perpetrator, Eddie Ray Routh, an ex-Marine with a history of mental illness, claimed the lives of these two men in an act that sent shockwaves through the nation. At just 38 years old, Kyle's untimely death not only ended a remarkable military career but also robbed the world of a figure who had become emblematic of American valor and sacrifice. His legacy as a highly skilled sniper, known as “The Devil of Ramadi,” would forever be intertwined with this heartbreaking event.

In the wake of Kyle's murder, a massive outpouring of grief and support emerged, particularly from his home state of Texas, where thousands attended a public memorial service held at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington. His family, including his wife Taya and their two young children, faced an unimaginable loss. The legal proceedings against Routh garnered significant media attention, culminating in a quick trial where he was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Chris Kyle's story serves as both a testament to his heroism and a stark reminder of the tragic toll the struggles of war can impose, even after the battlefield has quieted.

American Sniper Film Adaptation

The film adaptation of Chris Kyle's autobiography, "American Sniper," was released in 2014, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Clint Eastwood. Starring Bradley Cooper in the lead role, the film vividly depicts Kyle's life as a Navy SEAL sniper and his experiences during four combat tours in Iraq. Upon its release, the film garnered significant attention and sparked passionate discussions about the representation of military service and the moral complexities of warfare. It was praised for its raw portrayal of Kyle's exceptional marksmanship and the psychological toll that his service took on him and his family.

"American Sniper" became a commercial success, earning over $540 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing war films in history. The film received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, which underlined its cultural impact and resonated with audiences. Critics were divided; while some lauded its candidness regarding the realities of war, others criticized it for perceived glorification of violence. Regardless of the differing opinions, the film brought Chris Kyle's story and legacy into mainstream consciousness, leading to renewed discussions about veterans' issues and the impact of war on individuals and families.

Personal Life: Married Life | Wife | Children

Chris Kyle married Taya Renae Kyle (née Studdard) in 2002. Their love story began in a chance encounter, and it blossomed against the backdrop of his military service. Taya often described Chris as her rock, providing unwavering support as he navigated the challenges of being a Navy SEAL. Despite the demanding nature of his career and the emotional toll of multiple deployments to Iraq, the couple maintained a strong bond, highlighting their commitment to one another.

Together, Chris and Taya welcomed two children, a son, Colton, born in 2004, and a daughter, Grace, born in 2006. The couple prioritized family life, spending quality time together whenever possible. Taya has spoken openly about the unique challenges they faced as a military family, including the struggles of maintaining normalcy during Chris's absences due to combat. Their family experiences were an integral part of Chris's life, serving as a source of motivation during his service and a foundation of support and love even after his military retirement.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary

Chris Kyle, known for his iconic role as a Navy SEAL sniper, not only made headlines through his military prowess but also his subsequent ventures that contributed to his overall net worth. His sniper career during four combat deployments in Iraq, where he claimed to have killed over 160 insurgents, equipped him with a unique public profile that later translated into significant earnings. Kyle’s autobiography, "American Sniper," published in 2012, became a bestseller, which significantly boosted his financial standing. The book’s success paved the way for various media appearances and endorsements that further enriched his income.

In addition to his literary success, Kyle founded Craft International, a security firm that capitalized on his military experience and training, generating additional revenue streams. His active participation in reality television, including the show "Stars Earn Stripes," alongside his philanthropic efforts with the FITCO Cares Foundation, positioned him as a notable figure both in military circles and popular culture. Estimated to have a net worth in the millions at the time of his death, Kyle's financial legacy was intricately linked to his military achievements and the brand he cultivated around them.