Patriot Day
This commemorative holiday honors the lives lost in the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001.
This commemorative holiday honors the lives lost in the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001.
Names: Patriot Day, National Day of Service and Remembrance
This commemorative holiday honors the lives lost in the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001.
Origin
Patriot Day was established by the U.S. Congress in December 2001. In April 2009, Congress requested the annual observance of September 11 as the National Day of Service and Remembrance. Colloquially, the day is sometimes called "9/11 Day."
Traditions
Each year, Patriot Day is recognized on the federal level with a presidential proclamation and a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, the time in which the first plane struck the World Trade Center. Flags throughout the nation are hung at half-staff. Memorials are held for those lost in the attacks and for first responders.
As an additional day of service, Patriot Day participants are encouraged to volunteer in ways that strengthen their community. AmeriCorps, a government-backed service coalition, works with nonprofits nationwide to support volunteer efforts.