Patriot Day is a United States national observance held annually on September 11 to commemorate the 2,977 people killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. By a presidential proclamation issued on December 18, 2001, this day was officially designated as an annual day of remembrance. It is a day dedicated to solemn reflection and honoring the memory of the victims, their families, and the first responders who answered the call.
The observance specifically memorializes the victims of the four coordinated attacks: the hijackings and subsequent crashes of American Airlines Flight 11 into the North Tower of the World Trade Center, United Airlines Flight 175 into the South Tower, American Airlines Flight 77 into the Pentagon, and United Airlines Flight 93 in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. On this day, the President of the United States directs that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff at all federal buildings and establishments. A moment of silence is traditionally observed at 8:46 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time), the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center.
In 2009, Congress designated September 11 as the "National Day of Service and Remembrance," expanding the day's focus to include a positive, forward-looking tribute. This legislation encourages Americans to participate in community service and charitable activities as a way to honor the victims and heroes of that day. The dual designation frames the observance not only as a time for mourning and remembrance but also as an opportunity to foster unity and compassion through acts of service, reaffirming the nation's resilience and spirit.
