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Date: September 11th annually
History: Patriot Day is a national day of remembrance in the United States that pays tribute to the nearly 3,000 people killed in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The attacks involved four coordinated terrorist actions by the Islamic extremist group al-Qaeda against targets in New York City and Washington, D.C., including the destruction of the World Trade Center towers and damage to the Pentagon.
The day was first observed in 2002 following a proclamation by President George W. Bush. In December 2001, Congress passed a joint resolution designating September 11th as "Patriot Day," which was subsequently approved as Public Law 107-89.
Traditions:
Moment of Silence: At 8:46 AM ET, the exact time when the first plane hit the World Trade Center, many Americans observe a moment of silence to honor those who lost their lives.
Flag Display: The American flag is flown at half-staff at homes, government buildings, and businesses across the country.
Memorial Services: Ceremonies and services are held nationwide, with notable events at Ground Zero in New York City for World Trade Center victims, at Shanksville, Pennsylvania for United Flight 93, and at the Pentagon for those who died there.
Volunteer Service: Many people participate in community service or perform good deeds as a way to pay tribute to the victims and heroes of 9/11. This concept has been encouraged by organizations such as MyGoodDeed and has led to recognition of September 11th as an official National Day of Service and Remembrance under federal law.
What People Do: Individuals often partake in personal reflection or participate in memorial events. Public officials lay wreaths and give speeches. Educational institutions may hold assemblies or lessons on topics related to 9/11. Some individuals also visit memorials dedicated to those lost during the attacks.
While Patriot Day is not a federal holiday—schools and businesses remain open—it remains a solemn day of reflection across America where communities gather together to remember one of history's most tragic days.