After surviving four tours in Iraq, U.S. Navy Seal Chris Kyle earned a reputation as one of America’s deadliest military snipers. He was discharged honorably with two Silver Stars, five Bronze Stars with valor, a Grateful Nation Award, and one Navy and Marine Corps commendation. He returned home to become a New York Times bestselling author of the book American Sniper and a mentor to other veterans. But on February 2, in Texas, far from the war zone of Iraq, Chris Kyle was allegedly shot and killed by former Marine Eddie Ray Routh.
Since then Chris’ widow, Taya, has become an advocate for veterans and their families. Despite the tragedy her views on life and guns have not changed. “I’m in a different position than I used to be. I feel more vulnerable. I would like to have my gun for protection,” Taya told S.E. Cupp.
She also does not believe that the man who allegedly shot her husband was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. “I don’t think of this as a case of PTSD at all,” Taya said.
The mother of two has defended the rights of gun owners. She recently attended the NRA convention in Houston but does not see herself as a political figure–just as a women being a voice for her husband. “I dont see myself in the political realm,” Taya said. “But what I do see is Chris’s legacy and vision being important, and I’d like to share with people his story and his use of guns in his life.”
Before Chris was killed he had written a second book, American Gun, which debuted last week and tells the history of the U.S. through ten iconic guns. Taya has said that she will be promoting the book in her husband’s place.
Steven Spielberg will be directing a movie based on American Gun and Bradley Cooper will be playing Chris. “I couldn’t ask for a better team,” Taya said. She said the screenwriter and director are dedicated to getting the story right. “Spielberg wants to make it as authentic as he possibly can and let the audience judge for themselves. I love that. That’s Chris.”
Abby Borovitz