The term "Patriot Day" functions as a proper noun. This grammatical classification is crucial because it identifies a specific, official observance rather than a general concept of a patriotic day. It is the formal name given to the annual day of remembrance in the United States, observed on September 11th, to commemorate and honor the nearly 3,000 individuals killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
The observance was established by U.S. Public Law 107-89, signed on December 18, 2001. By presidential proclamation, the day is marked by flying the U.S. flag at half-staff on all federal buildings and establishments worldwide. A nationwide moment of silence is also traditionally observed at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time, the moment the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. While it is a national day of remembrance, it is not a federal holiday, and government offices and schools typically remain open. The day was also designated a National Day of Service and Remembrance in 2009, encouraging civic engagement and charitable acts.
The primary purpose of this observance is to provide a formal, unified occasion for national mourning and solemn reflection. It serves to honor the victims, their families, and the first responders who acted with heroism during the attacks. By combining remembrance with a call to service, the day transforms a day of national tragedy into an opportunity for positive community action, distinguishing it from celebratory holidays like the Fourth of July and emphasizing themes of resilience, sacrifice, and unity.
