A Hero Americans Must Never Forget
There are many reasons to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary this year and Lawrence W. Reed in his opinion piece in the January 6, 2026 issue of the Epoch Times listed one of them, Nathan Hale. You may remember his last words before he was hanged by the British. “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”
The War for Independence began at Lexington and Concord three months before Hale entered Yale College at the age of 14 and graduated with highest honors in 1773. He had a brilliant teaching career in the Connecticut secondary schools, when he received a letter from a Yale classmate, Benjamin Tallmadge. In part of his letter he wrote the following, “…We all should be ready to step forth in the common cause. Were I in your condition, I think the more extensive service would be my choice.” This was in answer to Hale’s being torn between teaching on the one hand and the urge to fight for America’s liberty on the other.
Two days later, Hale accepted a commission as a First Lieutenant in Colonel Charles Webb’s 7th Connecticut Regiment. He was now a soldier and also a spy in the army.
Hales performed admirably in his first year in the army. He was selected to an elite group of 150 men known as Knowlton’s Rangers, the predecessor to today’s special forces units such as Delta Force and Army Rangers. These infantry men were committing double treason-not only taking up arms against British Forces, but also spying on the enemy.
After the loss at the Battle of Long Island, General George Washington needed information as to the placement and movement of British forces that threatened Manhattan. He went to Knowlton’s unit and asked for a volunteer. Guess who volunteered…Nathan Hale.
Just days into this suicide mission, Hale was recognized in a tavern by a Loyalist who tipped off the British. He was arrested and interrogated by the highest-ranking officer in the British army. However, Hale gave only his name, rank, and an honest account of his purpose. His request for a Bible and a clergyman was denied. He was pronounced guilty and sentenced to death by hanging.
The British left Hale hanging for several days before burying him unceremoniously in an unmarked grave. Neither the site nor the body were ever found. Hale died at the age of 21 and entered American history. He is one of the American heroes who must never be forgotten.