why did kash patel say see you in valhalla

Kash Patel said "See you in Valhalla" as a tribute to Charlie Kirk during a press conference announcing the capture of the suspect in Kirk's shooting. Valhalla is a term from Norse mythology referring to a grand hall where slain warriors who died bravely in battle are received to feast and prepare for a final battle. The phrase "See you in Valhalla" is used in U.S. military culture as a sign of respect and honor for fallen comrades. Patel, who was raised Hindu, used the phrase as a gesture of respect in the military warrior ethos, even though Kirk was an outspoken Christian and the phrase does not align with Christian beliefs. The statement combined two military sign-offs, "We have the watch" and "See you in Valhalla," used to honor those who have passed on. The phrase sparked some confusion and mixed reactions on social media due to differences in religious symbolism and Patel's background.