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September 11, 2001 Anniversary Guide

To remember the events of that tragic day, to honor the innocent victims, to celebrate the heroism of first responders, and to highlight useful resources for acquiring a deeper understanding of 9/11 and its ongoing implications.

Patriot Day

W will never forget - Patriot Day - 9/11
On December 18, 2001, a Joint Resolution of the U.S. Congress designated September 11 as Patriot Day to honor the innocent victims who lost their lives that day as a result of the terrorist attacks.  The resolution calls for the president of the United States to issue a yearly proclamation. Each proclamation calls upon local, state, federal institutions, organizations and individuals to fly U.S. flags at half-mast, to commemorate this day with appropriate programs and activities, and to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. EDT (the time when the first airplane struck the World Trade Center).

National Day of Service and Remembrance

National Day of Service and RemembranceSeptember 11 was designated a National Day of Service and Remembrance when the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act was signed into law by President Barack Obama on April 21, 2009.

"Originated by the family members of those who lost loved ones on 9/11, the National Day of Service and Remembrance is an opportunity to salute the heroes of 9/11, recapture the spirit of unity and compassion that inspired our Nation following the attacks, and rededicate ourselves to sustained service to our communities." (Proclamation No. 8413, 74 F.R. 47043 (September 10, 2009)).

Volunteer Opportunities

  • AmeriCorps 9/11 Day - Use the AmeriCorps Volunteer Search to find an opportunity near you through one of these organizations: AmeriCorps, Idealist, California Volunteers, MENTOR, Volunteer.gov (National Park Service), and VolunteerMatch.
  • Points of Light - Lists various ways individuals can help pay tribute to those touched by the tragedies of 9/11.
  • Youth Service America - Use their searchable map to find volunteer opportunities. Their web site also offers toolkits to help young people create events in their hometown.