Yes, Patriot Day in the United States is observed annually on September 11. It is the official day of remembrance for the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The designation was established by U.S. Public Law 107-89, which was signed by President George W. Bush on December 18, 2001. The law designates September 11 of each year as "Patriot Day."
The observance is a day of national mourning rather than a federal holiday, meaning government offices and schools typically remain open. By law, the President directs that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff at all U.S. government buildings and establishments, both at home and abroad. The President also asks Americans to observe a moment of silence to honor the victims, which often occurs at 8:46 a.m. (EDT), the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center. This day should not be confused with Patriots' Day, a state holiday in Massachusetts and Maine commemorating the battles of Lexington and Concord, which is observed in April.
In 2009, Congress further designated September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance, under the Serve America Act. This addition encourages Americans to participate in community service and charitable activities as a tribute to the victims, survivors, and first responders of the 9/11 attacks. The day therefore serves a dual purpose: a solemn commemoration of the lives lost and a call to action for citizens to engage in positive acts of service that strengthen national unity and resilience.
