Patriot Day is indeed observed annually on September 11th in the United States. This date was officially designated to commemorate the nearly 3,000 victims of the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001, in New York City, Washington D.C., and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Established by a joint resolution of Congress and signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2002, Patriot Day serves as a national day of remembrance. While it is not a federal holiday that mandates closures of businesses or schools, it encourages Americans to observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time, which marks the moment the first plane struck the World Trade Center. On this day, the flag of the United States is flown at half-staff at individual homes, at the White House, and on all U.S. government buildings and establishments both domestically and abroad, symbolizing national mourning.
The observance of Patriot Day underscores a collective national commitment to remember those who perished, to honor the bravery and sacrifice of first responders and military personnel, and to reflect on the enduring spirit of resilience and unity that emerged in the wake of the attacks. It serves as a solemn occasion for remembrance, reflection, and renewed dedication to national values.
