NATHAN HALE - AMERICAN HERO

There is a beautifully appointed plaque on the building at the north west corner of 65th Street and Third Avenue in Manhattan.  It tells, succinctly and movingly, the story we all know from grade school of that great American hero, Nathan Hale.  I assume that we all remember his last words as well, “I regret that I have only one life to give for my country.”  

What many folks don’t know is that Nathan Hale was entrapped by another great American hero, Major Robert Rogers, the phenomenal ranger of the French and Indian War whose manual is still the basis for specially trained American forces such as the Green Berets and the highly skilled Navy Seals.  Due, however, to bankruptcy, some question regarding his personal loyalties that were raised by some which included those of the American leader, George Washington, and the various rivalries of commanding officers in the opposing armies, Rogers cast his loyalty with the English.  After the Battle of Long Island, which the British won, Rogers recognized Hale in a tavern, and, pretending to sympathize with the Patriots, tricked Hale into revealing his spying.  Hale was arrested by Rogers, sentenced to death by General Howe and forfeited his life in the apple orchard which at that time filled the hill that has become Third Avenue and 65th Street, Manhattan. At that time, what is now Third Avenue was the Post Road.   (You can google ‘Nathan Hale’ for a fuller account.)

I live just two blocks north, at 67th Street and Third, and so frequently pass by the historical plaque, sometimes more than once in a day.  I always note who is reading it and, time permitting, watch their reaction.  Once, last fall, I watched a solder dressed in winter uniform read the plaque.  Then the soldier stepped back a pace or two, came to attention and smartly saluted the plaque which tells the story of our Revolutionary War hero.  The young soldier then proceeded on his way along the avenue.  I think of that soldier often and pray for his safety and well being along with all our armed forces.  I also silently thank Mr. Hale.  I think of what that view must have been on that April morning in the blooming apple orchard as I gaze down busy Third Avenue.  On a good day, I can see all the way past 42nd Street.