Patriot Day

In the United States, Patriot Day is commemorated every year on September 11 to pay tribute to the individuals who lost their lives during the 2001 terrorist incidents.

History

In the aftermath of the Al-Qaeda attacks, President George W. Bush proclaimed September 14, 2001, as a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance dedicated to honoring the victims. Subsequently, on October 25, 2001, Representative Vito Fossella (R-NY) introduced legislation in the U.S. House aiming to designate September 11 as a national day of mourning. This led to the inaugural observance of Patriot Day on September 11, 2002.

The original bill garnered bipartisan backing, with co-sponsors from both major political parties representing various states.

Between 2009 and 2016, President Barack Obama annually declared September 11 as Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance pursuant to the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act. In 2017, President Donald Trump proclaimed September 8 through 10 as National Days of Prayer and Remembrance while reaffirming September 11 as Patriot Day, maintaining this tradition until 2020.

Since taking office, President Joe Biden has consistently issued Executive Orders from 2021 through 2024 to observe Patriot Day alongside the National Day of Service and Remembrance.

Observance

The flag of the United States is lowered to half-staff at the White House and all U.S. government facilities worldwide; citizens are also encouraged to fly flags at their residences. At precisely 8:46 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time), a moment of silence is observed to mark the time when American Airlines Flight 11 impacted the North Tower of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

Although Patriot Day is not classified as a federal holiday, schools and businesses continue regular operations, while numerous memorial events honoring the 2,977 victims are held nationwide. Additionally, volunteer service initiatives are frequently coordinated by the Corporation for National and Community Service.