Patriot Day was established on December 18, 2001, when President George W. Bush signed Public Law 107-89. This joint resolution of the U.S. Congress designated September 11 of each year as a national day of remembrance for the individuals killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
The legislative vehicle for this action was House Joint Resolution 71, introduced in the House of Representatives on October 25, 2001. The resolution passed through Congress with broad support, reflecting a national desire to formally commemorate the event. The law directs the President to issue a proclamation annually, calling on the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
The creation of this day serves to formalize a national observance. By law, the American flag is to be flown at half-staff at all U.S. government buildings and individual American homes as a mark of respect. The statute also calls for a moment of silence to be observed nationwide at 8:46 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time), the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center, to honor the victims.
