The keyword phrase "patriot day real story" functions as a noun phrase. Its main point is the factual narrative behind the U.S. observance of Patriot Day. This day, held annually on September 11, is a national day of remembrance for the 2,977 people killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Officially designated as the "National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of the Terrorist Attacks on September 11, 2001," it was established by law in 2002. It is distinct from "Patriots' Day," a regional holiday in New England commemorating the American Revolutionary War battles of Lexington and Concord.
The "real story" details the coordinated attacks carried out by 19 al-Qaeda terrorists who hijacked four commercial airplanes. American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 were crashed into the North and South Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, respectively, causing their collapse. American Airlines Flight 77 was crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. The fourth plane, United Airlines Flight 93, was intended for a target in Washington, D.C., but crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers and crew members fought back against the hijackers. The victims included citizens from over 90 countries, as well as hundreds of first responders who died while attempting rescue operations.
The purpose of Patriot Day is to provide a solemn occasion for national reflection and mourning. By law, the President of the United States directs that the American flag be flown at half-staff at all U.S. government buildings and establishments, both at home and abroad. A national moment of silence is observed at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time, marking the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center. The observance serves to honor the victims, their families, and the first responders, and to remember the national unity and resilience that emerged in the aftermath of the attacks.
