The 43rd annual Nathan Hale Day Ceremony was held Friday at the State Capitol.

Hale, who was born on June 6 in Coventry, is Connecticut's state hero.

During the American Revolutionary, Hale served in the Army. In September 1776, on a request from George Washington, Hale crossed enemy lines in New York to spy on the British. However, while on his way back, he was caught.

Hale was hanged for being a spy, but did not have trial.

Speakers said Hale's short life is a timeless example of courage and patriotism.

"Hale died not in vain, but in full commitment for the cause of freedom. Let me be clear, Nathan Hale didn't die in the heat of battle. He didn't command armies or draft founding documents. He was a school teacher, a quiet thoughtful man who believed that liberty was worth dying for," said John DeBisschop, the department commander of American Legion, Department of Connecticut.

The ceremony was arranged and held by the American Legion, Department of Connecticut.