Introduction:
National Patriot Day and the National Day of Service and Remembrance, observed annually on September 11, honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost during the 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States. This day not only commemorates the victims but also pays tribute to the selfless acts of first responders and encourages acts of community service to transform a day of tragedy into one of unity and hope.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 11
- Tagged as: Remembrance, Service, Patriotism
- What’s the hashtag?: #PatriotDay, #NeverForget
- When was it founded?: December 18, 2001 (Patriot Day) and April 21, 2009 (National Day of Service)
- Who founded it?: U.S. Congress through Public Laws 107-89 and 111-13
History
The tragic events of September 11, 2001, saw coordinated terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Virginia, and a thwarted attack resulting in a crash in Pennsylvania. In response to this unprecedented tragedy, Congress designated September 11 as Patriot Day in December 2001. The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act of 2009 further established it as a National Day of Service and Remembrance to honor the victims and promote volunteerism.
Timeline
- September 11, 2001: Terrorist attacks claim nearly 3,000 lives.
- September 13, 2001: President Bush declares September 14 as a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance.
- September 4, 2002: The first official Patriot Day is observed.
- April 21, 2009: Congress designates September 11 as a National Day of Service.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 11 | Thursday |
| 2026 | September 11 | Friday |
| 2027 | September 11 | Saturday |
| 2028 | September 11 | Monday |
| 2029 | September 11 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | September 11 | Wednesday |
Observed
Patriot Day is marked by lowering the U.S. flag to half-staff at government buildings and homes. A moment of silence is observed at pivotal times corresponding to the attacks (e.g., at 8:46 AM EDT when the first plane struck). Community service activities are encouraged nationwide to honor the spirit of resilience.
Fun Facts About
- The National September 11 Memorial in New York features two reflecting pools with victims’ names inscribed around them.
- Over ninety countries lost citizens during the attacks.
- The Pentagon Memorial includes benches dedicated to each victim from that site.
Quiz
- What year was Patriot Day officially established?
- What act designated September 11 as a National Day of Service?
- What time is the national moment of silence observed?
(Answers:)
- December 18, 2001;
- Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act;
- At 8:46 AM EDT.
FAQs
Q: Is Patriot Day a federal holiday?
A: No, schools and businesses remain open; however, remembrance ceremonies are held nationwide.
Q: How can I participate in this day?
A: Attend memorial events or volunteer for community service initiatives.
Related
- Memorial Day (May)
- Veterans Day (November)
- Patriots’ Day (April)