Taya Kyle, widow of “American Sniper” author, given award by Charlotte Motor Speedway

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An Army repel team kneels in the infield while a helicopter hovers above during a demonstration prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup series auto race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Sunday, May 24, 2015, in Concord, N.C. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)

CONCORD, N.C. – The wife of “American Sniper” subject Chris Kyle was honoured with the Stonewall Jackson Award at Charlotte Motor Speedway before the Coca-Cola 600.

Taya Kyle was introduced to the crowd before NASCAR’s longest race Sunday night.

Kyle said her late husband became a NASCAR fan and a supporter of racer Dale Earnhardt Jr. after getting to go behind the scenes at an event as a former member of the military. The Stonewall Jackson Award is given out by the speedway for those individuals who demonstrate the highest standards of patriotism.

Chris Kyle, who was shot to death at a Texas gun range in 2013, was a Navy SEAL sniper who authored his memoir, “American Sniper.” The bestselling book was turned into a successful movie made by director Clint Eastwood.

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