Patriot Day is an annual observance in the United States, established to commemorate the lives lost during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. It serves as a national day of remembrance for the nearly 3,000 victims and the brave first responders who perished on that tragic day.
Officially designated by a joint resolution of Congress and signed into law by President George W. Bush on December 18, 2001, the observance occurs every year on September 11th. The attacks involved the coordinated hijacking of four commercial airliners, targeting the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and resulting in a crash in Stonycreek Township, Pennsylvania, after passengers and crew valiantly fought back. The day is intended to foster national unity, honor those who died, and acknowledge the enduring impact of the events on the nation's collective consciousness.
On this solemn day, the President typically issues a proclamation requesting the display of the U.S. flag at half-staff at all homes, government buildings, and establishments, from sunrise to sunset. Americans are also encouraged to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time, marking the precise moment the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. The observance underscores the importance of vigilance, resilience, and the enduring spirit of service and community in the face of adversity.
