The Thirteenth Annual Chris Kyle Memorial Benefit, held on April 25, 2026, at the BASE at Extraco Events Center in Waco, Texas, brought together hundreds of supporters from across the country to honor the legacy of the legendary U.S. Navy SEAL. Organized by the American Valor Foundation—a nonprofit established by the Kyle family—the event remains one of the region’s premier fundraisers dedicated to supporting active duty military, veterans, first responders, and their families. Operating under Chris Kyle’s enduring motto, "It's Our Duty To Serve Those Who Serve Us," 100% of the evening's proceeds were directed toward vital assistance programs, including higher education scholarships, emergency medical expense coverage, and community outreach.
The benefit offered attendees a dynamic and patriotic evening packed with entertainment, camaraderie, and meaningful ways to give back. The program kicked off with an exclusive VIP reception and happy hour, followed by a formal dinner where guests received a limited-edition Chris Kyle Memorial Benefit challenge coin. Throughout the night, the venue buzzed with high-stakes energy as participants engaged in a lively charity casino night and competitive live and silent auctions, bidding on a premium selection of commemorative items, custom buckles, and collectible knives to drive the foundation's fundraising goals.
Beyond the entertainment, the heartbeat of the evening was a profound sense of shared gratitude and community impact. The event provided a powerful platform to highlight the tangible ways the American Valor Foundation supports heroes in their times of need, from funding advanced law enforcement training and assisting with firefighter memorial services to providing essential mortgage, vehicle, and home repair assistance. By uniting corporate sponsors, local families, and veterans under one roof, the 2026 benefit successfully ensured that the spirit of service and sacrifice championed by Chris Kyle continues to provide a vital lifeline for those who protect our communities and nation.