Nathaniel G. Hale
Lieutenant Nathaniel Gibson Hale, 24, of Murray, Calloway County, Kentucky, died of an accidental gunshot wound on 13 January 1917 while on federal active duty with his unit near El Paso, Texas during Mexican Border Service. Hale was a member of Murray's L Company, Third Kentucky Infantry and at the time of his death was in his tent at the regimental camp, Camp Owen Bierne, some two miles from Fort Bliss, near El Paso. He was part of the Kentucky National Guard contingent called to federal duty to patrol a sixty mile stretch of the border between Fort Bliss and Fort Hancock. Hale joined the Kentucky National Guard as a private on 22 June 1912. He was promoted to Sergeant and First Sergeant and elected First Lieutenant on 10 July 1914. Hale is buried in the Murray City Cemetery in Calloway County.
General Orders, No. 1 January 20, 1917.
General Order Book – 1917
1. The State Headquarters learn with sorrow of the accidental death of 1st Lieutenant Nathaniel G. Hale, Company L, 3rd Kentucky Infantry, in the Federal Service, which occurred in camp at Fort Bliss, near El Paso, Texas, on the 13th instant, as the result of a gun shot wound in the head.
2. Lieutenant Hale entered the National Guard service as a Private in Company L, 3rd Infantry, stationed at Murray, Kentucky on June 22, 1912; was promoted successively to Sergeant and First Sergeant; elected Second Lieutenant January 26, 1914; and elected First Lieutenant July 10, 1914. He was in command of his company for many months during the absence of his Captain; he was a good rifle shot and much interested in rifle practice, and his death removes from the service an officer who has labored with conspicuous ability and success in furthering the efficiency of the National Guard. He has the confidence and esteem of his superiors, and the respect, support, and affection of his subordinates. He died for his country and his flag in as deep a sense as had he died on the field of battle.
By Order of the Governor:
J. Tandy Ellis
The Adjutant General.