Texas Gov. Greg Abbott officially proclaimed Feb. 2 as Chris Kyle Day in honor of the U.S. Navy SEAL known as the deadliest sniper in U.S. Military history.
Kyle served four tours in Iraq, but lived in Midlothian.
City leaders said they’re proud of Kyle’s service to his country.
“I was proud, proud of our community and proud of Chris for what he represented, not just to Midlothian, but to the state of Texas and our country,” said Midlothian Mayor Bill Houston. “He did a job and performed in a way that most of us wouldn’t do, wouldn’t be capable of doing and I’m thankful he did it, and I’m honored he was from Midlothian.”
Robert “Duce” Cato, a friend and board member of “Guardian of Heroes Foundation” founded by Chris Kyle, says today is about thanking all veterans.
“Chris, I don’t think he realized how many people he saved, how many lives he has touched and how many he will continue to touch as generations get older, read his book, see his movie. He will live on for an eternity,” Cato said.
“I don’t know that Chris would have wanted this national attention, but at the end of the day, he has it, he got it, and at the end of the day it brings awareness to what he strived for everyday when he got out of the Navy,” Cato said.
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Kyle was dedicated to helping veterans, and was at a gun range with a veteran who was reportedly suffering from post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD when he was killed. Kyle and his friend, Chad Littlefield, were shot to death.
“When he was taken away from us, everybody mourned deeply for him, but we continue to press on with his vision and his legacy and ensure that that never dies,” Cato said.
In a statement Cato said:
“Chief (SEAL) Kyle is a long-time friend, hunting buddy and brother-in-arms. His death was a shock to the nation. For Gov. Abbott to declare February 2nd “Chris Kyle Day” is not only a great honor to a great son, brother, warrior, father and friend but it’s just one more way to ensure his legacy will live on for an eternity. He is missed every day. He is a veteran that all veterans should emulate.”
Governor Abbott’s proclamation reads in part as follows:
"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.”
