[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 176 (Tuesday, October 13, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E957-E958]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        CELEBRATING THE RELEASE OF FIRST SERGEANT JOHN E. HATLEY

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                           HON. RALPH NORMAN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 13, 2020

  Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the release of 
First Sergeant John E. Hatley from Fort Leavenworth.
  First Sergeant Hatley is an American hero who, throughout his twenty 
years of service, risked his life for his country time and time again. 
His outstanding military career as a soldier and leader in the U.S. 
Army is recognized by two Bronze Stars and an Army Commendation Medal 
for Valor--a true testament of his commitment to his country and his 
fellow soldiers.
  First Sergeant Hatley was sentenced for the premeditated murder of 
four Shi'ite fighters in Iraq despite the complete absence of evidence. 
Not a single scrap of physical or forensic evidence was found in a 
thorough investigation conducted by the Army Criminal Investigation 
Division. Notwithstanding this paucity of evidence, First Sergeant 
Hatley has been imprisoned for nearly a decade.
  Throughout his time at Fort Leavenworth, First Sergeant Hatley has 
availed himself of programs available within the barracks for self-
improvement, and he has nearly completed a Master of Business 
Administration degree. He also consistently maintained a positive 
attitude, led other inmates by example, and even saved a fellow 
inmate's life.
  First Sergeant Hatley is a man with strong family support, a stellar 
military record, a phenomenal moral compass, and an essentially perfect 
record while incarcerated. His career was characterized by honor, 
sacrifice, and valor. Now that he will return to his rightful place in 
life as a contributing member of society, First Sergeant Hatley is 
planning to build a home for his disabled mother and father. He also 
plans to marry his girlfriend, Pamela Miller.
  John, I hope that you may continue to serve as an example to other 
soldiers and the American people. Thank you for your outstanding 
service to this country. I wish you the best of luck as you return to 
your proper place in society, and I wish you a lifetime of happiness in 
your future marriage and life.

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