Bill Flores: “On February 2 America lost Naval Chief Petty Officer Christopher Scott Kyle in a tragic shooting. Chief Kyle was a true…”

“On February 2 America lost Naval Chief Petty Officer Christopher Scott Kyle in a tragic shooting. Chief Kyle was a true Texan who grew up learning the cowboy ways in central Texas. After a riding injury to his arm, his future in the rodeo was lost. Kyle went on to pursue his other dream and joined the military. He served in the Navy for 10 years most notably as a Chief Petty Officer in the Navy SEAL's. Assigned to SEAL team 3 as a sniper, he served 4 tours in ``Operation Iraqi Freedom.'' At the time of his tragic death, he was helping two fellow veterans cope with post- military life as he did with many other veterans. During his 10 years of service to our country, Chief Kyle earned many awards and decorations. He earned two Silver Stars, five Bronze Stars with Valor, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and one Navy and Marine Corps Commendation. Kyle's achievements and ferocity earned not only the respect of his fellow service men and women, but the enemy as well. On February 12, Chief Petty Officer Chris Kyle was laid to rest at the Texas State Cemetery in Austin, Texas. Thousands lined the streets and highways to pay their respects and honor the service and sacrifice of Chief Kyle as his funeral procession traveled 200 miles from Midlothian to Austin. On that day, we laid this American hero to rest. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and the many friends of Chief Kyle.…”