Patriot Day protocol and additional ways to observe it

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - Fourteen years ago, September 11, 2001, the Islamic terrorist group al-Qaeda coordinated a series of four terrorist attacks, targeting symbolic United States landmarks. In total, 2,996 people lost their lives. This number included the 19 hijackers.

Later that year on December 18, Congress designated September 11 as “Patriot Day.” Eight years later on April 21, 2009, Congress requested that an annual "National Day of Service and Remembrance," be observed on the same day. By proclamation they were each signed into law the years they were proposed by Congress.

In observance of the September 11 attacks, all departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States are to display The United States Flag at half-staff, in honor of the Americans who lost their lives.

The nation is also asked to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time, when the first plane hit the World Trade Center. The following times...9:03 AM, 9:37 AM, 9:59 AM, 10:03 AM, 10:28 AM, chronicle the subsequent attacks and major events on that fateful morning, which include the 2nd World Trade Tower attack, when the twin towers came crumbling down, the attack on the Pentagon, and the heroic attempt by passengers on United Airlines Flight 93, to avert an attack on either the Capitol or the White House. Any observances or services should commence by 8:46 a.m., and not conclude prior to 10:28 a.m.

Other ways to observe the day can include any or all of the following:


Attend a local memorial observance, or organize one.

Show some form of appreciation to local first responders.

Donate to the 9/11 Memorial for a lasting place for reflection and remembrance for generations to come, or donate to charities that help those who were injured, or to the families who lost a loved one in the attacks.

And wear our nation’s colors...red, white, and blue. #911 #PatriotDay #UnitedWeStand #NeverForget