Patriot Day 2025: Honoring the Memory of 9/11

On September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked four passenger planes. Two planes struck the World Trade Center towers in New York City, one crashed into the Pentagon, and the fourth crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers fought back against the hijackers. Public Law 107-89 designated September 11 as Patriot Day in December 2001. This law requests that the President issue a proclamation calling on state and local governments to observe Patriot Day with programs and activities, to fly the U.S. flag at half-staff, and to observe a moment of silence.

In 2009, Public Law 111-13 further designated September 11 as the National Day of Service and Remembrance, encouraging volunteerism and service to honor those affected by the attacks. Several National Cemeteries are participating in the National Day of Service and Remembrance, offering opportunities to clean headstones and beautify the grounds. When flying the flag at half-staff, it should first be raised to the top of the pole and then lowered to the half-staff position. Before lowering the flag for the day, it should again be raised to the top.

No, Patriot Day is not a federal holiday. Government offices are open, and mail is delivered as usual.

The U.S. flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on September 11. It should first be raised to the top of the pole before being lowered to half-staff.

How are you observing Patriot Day this year? Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below.

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