Patriot Day in United States

What is Patriot Day?

The United States suffered a terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Many people died that day, including individuals who were in service of rescuing victims of the attack. Patriot Day is observed to remember those victims and fallen heroes and remind everyone of the tragedy that occurred that day. It is observed on September 11 every year. In short, it is also called 9/11.

The day was first observed in 2002 by Congress. President George W. Bush afterward signed it into law. The primary purpose of this was to remember and honor the fallen. September 11 is also acknowledged as "National Day of Service and Remembrance" in accordance with Public Law 111-13, which was approved on April 21, 2009.

Patriot Day should not be confused with Patriots' or Patriots Day, which honors the first encounters of the American Revolutionary War.

History of the Patriot Day

September 11, 2001, is one of those days that shook and changed the trajectory of the world's future. On that day, terrorists crashed two jetliners into some of the most heavily populated and iconic buildings of New York, The World Trade Center buildings. In addition to the two planes, a third plane was also made to crash into the Pentagon in Washington D.C. Collectively, this terrorist attack killed 3,000 people. On top of that, roughly 6000 other individuals were also injured. This dark and bloody day later became known as the 9/11 incident. Many firefighters and police officers were also killed in their line of duty as they had to rescue those who survived the tragic event and retrieve the bodies of those who didn't.

Pentagon Memorial

On September 11, 2011, the National Pentagon Memorial was established as a tribute to all who lost their lives on that tragic day in 2001. It consists of an eternal flame located within Arlington National Cemetery near Washington D.C., along with a museum dedicated to memorializing those lost that day almost twenty-two years ago, now past since then.

When anyone enters the Memorial Gateway, they are welcomed by a Black Granite Stone with "September 11, 2001, at 9:47 a.m." inscribed on it, which is the exact time and date of the historical plane crash.Also inscribed is the sentence, “We claim this ground in remembrance of September 11, 2001, to honor the 184 people whose lives were lost, their families, and all who sacrificed that we may live in freedom. We will never forget.”

It also includes two fountains, a wall of names of those killed inextricably linked to their work at the Pentagon complex, and a wall honoring those who died that day. 

How is Patriot Day Observed and Celebrated?

Despite Patriot Day not being classified as a public holiday, many businesses will close for the day, and many schools will be dismissed early here in the U.S. Events honoring those who died serving the country are also held countrywide on this day, not only those who died on 9/11 but for all those who died serving the country since its founding.

 Patriot Day truly commemorates the fallen and the unfortunate event of 9/11. Moreover, it also celebrates those who are actively serving the country as well.

Patriot Day is celebrated worldwide, in all corners of the world. Many schools and educational institutes participate in the observance of his day. They do it to instill the history and importance of this day onto the students so that they develop a better understanding of the world around them. Furthermore, it teaches impressionable individuals to appreciate their life and work together toward a better, brighter future. 

People all over the country observe this day by taking on a festive look. Usually, the colors of their respective country's flags are dominant. Their national anthems and other patriotic songs are played and broadcasted in all forms of media countrywide.

 There are several ways to celebrate Patriot Day:

• By spending time with friends, family, and coworkers
• By visiting the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial
• By participating in a service project in your neighborhood, such as collecting donations for local charities or volunteering at a nearby homeless shelter
• By attending a remembrance ceremony at your local community center or church

Unique Patriot Day Celebration Ideas for Kids

 The nation’s children must be aware of what a tragic event was, and we should share a time for recollecting and honoring with the kids.

• At 8:46 a.m., we can observe a moment of silence with our children. They should know what it relates to being silent at that time and the importance of that specific time.
• Make a child or a teenager pick up a book about Patriot Day. Of course, for the child, the parents or the guardian should choose the text as it should be age appropriate.
• Watching documentaries together to learn more about the day and the facts and history behind the day.
• Crafting or painting can be fun, increasing the children's awareness of the event, but it is an excellent way to celebrate the day.
• A cookout with the children is a fine idea because it will be a fun family activity. It will be quality time between the parents and their children and increase their bond. Such an example would be cooking items and decorating them like the Flag of the U.S.A.

Exciting Facts About Patriot Day

The president of the United States is required to issue an annual proclamation asking that all American flags be hoisted at half-staff, according to the joint resolution of the U.S. Congress.

Additionally, Americans are urged to honor memorial ceremonies when they are held and to observe a moment of silence to remember the victims starting at 8:46 a.m. (Eastern Standard Time), when the first airplane struck the World Trade Center.

A Famous Quote  

“The Brave Die Never, Though They Sleep In Dust: Their Courage Nerves A Thousand Living Men” - Minot J. Savage

To Conclude

Patriot Day serves as a reminder to all that danger may arrive at any time. But the American spirit to overcome triumphs whatever may come its way. Besides this, it serves as a reminder for those who lost their lives on that tragic day. So next Patriot's day, let's pay our respect to those who have fallen and celebrate the American spirit!