Who Is Chris Kyle? Meet the 'American Sniper' Played By Bradley Cooper

American Sniper is being released this weekend with Oscar nominee Bradley Cooper playing the real life Chris Kyle, a United States Navy SEAL who was tragically killed two years ago.

Chris, who was 38 at the time of his death, served as a Navy SEAL from 1999 to 2009, with four tours served in the latest Iraq war. Chris is known as the most successful sniper in American military history, with 160 confirmed kills and 255 claimed kills. Chris also received many military honors including the Bronze and Silver Star.

During his time in Iraq, Chris‘ wife Taya Kyle gave birth to their son. Chris made the decision to leave the SEALS and was honorably discharged in 2009.

On February 2, 2013, Chris and a friend Chad Littlefield were both shot at Rough Creek Ranch-Lodge-Resort in Texas by Marine Corps veteran Eddie Ray Routh. Chris and Chad were attempting to help him cope with PTSD at the time.

American Sniper, also starring Sienna Miller, hits theaters nationwide tomorrow.