Speilberg Directs & Bradley Cooper To Star in American Sniper
By Debbie Gregory.
Director Steven Spielberg is using his talents to pay tribute to an American Hero, directing a movie about Navy Seal sniper Chris Kyle. The film will star Bradley Cooper in the adaptation of “American Sniper”, Kyle’s best- selling book.
The Odessa, TX born Navy Seal was killed earlier this year, along with his friend and fellow Veteran, Chad Littlefied, at a North Texas shooting range.
Kyle was considered to be the deadliest sniper in U.S. Military history. He was known for his record number sniper killings in Iraq. Kyle served four combat tours in Iraq with the SEALS. He also worked with Army and Marine units, receiving two Silver Stars and other commendations. He left the Navy in 2009.
Kyle made statements in an interview with Time Magazine saying he had no regrets on any of his many kills. He said he was comfortable with the possibility that this part of his life might be over, and felt that he was a better husband and father than a killer. Kyle was survived by his wife and two children.
The book “American Sniper” was released in 2012 and made the New York Times Best Seller List. Kyle became a celebrity. After he left the military, Kyle founded Craft International, a military training company. He also established FITCO Cares Foundation, a non-profit that helps veterans struggling with PTSD, and assists them in gaining access to exercise equipment.
Kyle and Chad were gunned down on the grounds of the Rough Creek Lodge , a resort in Glen Rose, TX, near Fort Worth. Hunting and shooting sports are some of the many recreational options available on its grounds.
Eddie Ray Routh, 25, was arrested for the shootings. Routh spent four years in the Marines. He is believed to have left the service in 2010. Public records show Routh previously lived at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, though his latest address was in Lancaster, TX.
