Patriot Day in the United States of America (USA) is observed every year on September 11th. It is a special day to remember those people who lost their lives in terror attacks that shocked the United States in September 2001. That was the most devastating attack in the history of the United States.
In 2024, Patriot Day will be observed on Monday, September 11th. Another aim behind the observance of this day is to showcase the spirit of the American people while facing adversity. On this day, the country will come together to pay tribute to victims of terrorism in all forms. It is also a day to remind the country and world that despite our differences we should stand together to fight terrorism.
Patriot Day Highlights
| Name of the event | Patriot Day |
| Year | 2024 |
| Date | 11th September 2024 |
| Day | Wednesday |
| Purpose | To remember those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 |
| First Proclaimed By | President George W. Bush in September 2002 |
| Observed In | United States of America |
| Frequency | Annual |
Significance of Patriot Day
Patriot Day is a very important day in the USA. It is the time to pay tribute to those innocent people who died during the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and the failed attack using Flight 93 in Pennsylvania.
It is also a day to show respect to those people who displayed amazing courage and resiliency during the attack. The people of America also honor the heroes of 9/11 on this day. These heroes include first responders, police officers, firefighters, etc.
Across the US, many events are organized on Patriot Day. People remember their loved ones in their own way. Every year, a large number of people gather together near the World Trade Center at 8:46 AM on Patriot Day to remember the victims. The World Trade Center was the place where the first plane struck the tower to start the terrorist attack.
You should note that Patriot Day is not just about mourning the victim. Instead, it is the day to show the world that the United States is a strong nation and fully committed to fighting against terrorism.
History of Patriot Day
Patriot Day is a day to commemorate the tragic events of September 11th, 2001. On that day, a group of terrorists attacked the United States in the most malicious way ever. They high-jacked four planes and crashed them into the Twin Towers in New York City, the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and a field in Pennsylvania.
Due to this attack, around 3000 innocent American citizens lost their lives. These attacks were also the primary reason why the US started War against terror outfits in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The US government established Patriot Day by passing a resolution in the US Congress in December 2001. The first Patriot Day was observed on September 11th, 2002. George W. Bush was the president of the United States at that time.
How to observe Patriot Day?
There are many ways by which you can observe Patriot Day. A few of these ways are discussed below.
| Ways to observe | Details |
| Moment of Silence | You can visit the World Trade Center memorial at 8:46 AM on September 11th, 2023. There you will find people observing the moment of silence to remember the victims. You may also join them to pay your tribute. |
| Volunteer Work | Participate in social services or volunteer for organizations that are working for the victims of these attacks. |
| Educational Activities | You can promote the understanding and significance of Patriot Day. Teach others why we should always observe this day. |
| Flag Display | Show your patriotism by flying the American flag at half-staff outside your home or office. |
| Organize a donation drive | You may consider organizing fundraisers or donation drives to support organizations that assist survivors of terrorism, military personnel, or families affected by the 9/11 attacks. |
| Support the Military | The US armed forces have been fighting terrorism since the 9/11 attacks. On Patriot Day, you can donate to the military and support them. |
Check other Important Days in September
Timeline of September 11th, 2001
Check out the following timeline to understand what actually happened on September 11th, 2001.
- 8:46 AM – Flight Number 11 of American Airlines carrying 92 people crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center in New York.
- 9:03 AM – Flight Number 175 of United Airlines carrying 65 people hit the south tower of the World Trade Center.
- 9:37 AM – American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the western side of the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia carrying 64 people onboard.
- 9:59 AM – After 56 minutes of being hit, the south tower of the World Trade Center collapsed.
- 10:03 AM – Flight 93 of United Airlines crashes into a field in Pennsylvania. It happened when passengers and crew attempted to retake the plane’s control from the hijackers. This plane was carrying 44 people.
- 10:28 AM – The north tower of the World Trade Center also collapsed.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is observed on September 11th every year.
No, it is not a federal holiday.
Yes, it is primarily observed in the United States only.
No, there are no specific guidelines regarding the celebration of this day.
There are numerous books and resources available online to know more about these devastating attacks.
