U.S. Observes 24th Patriot Day with Memorials, Moments of Silence

Lead Today in New York City, the Pentagon and Shanksville, relatives, first responders and officials gathered to honor the victims of the 2001 attacks with name readings, moments of silence and vigils.

Nut Graf Patriot Day commemorates the 2,977 lives lost in the September 11 attacks and underscores national unity through solemn remembrance ceremonies and community service initiatives, reinforcing the vow to “Never Forget.”

Commemorative Ceremonies

  • New York City: At the 9/11 Memorial plaza, family members read aloud the names of the victims as bagpipes played and two minutes of silence marked the moments each plane struck and the towers collapsed.
  • Pentagon: Dignitaries and military leaders paid tribute to the 184 service members and civilians killed when Flight 77 struck the Department of Defense headquarters, joined by President Biden and first lady Harris.
  • Shanksville, Pennsylvania: Veterans and local officials laid wreaths and observed silence at the Flight 93 National Memorial, honoring passengers who thwarted the hijackers’ plot.

Presidential Participation

  • President Biden delivered remarks at the Pentagon ceremony, lauding the courage of first responders and invoking national resilience.
  • Vice President Harris attended the New York ceremony, emphasizing ongoing support for survivors suffering from illness related to toxic exposure at Ground Zero.

Moments of Silence & Flag Observance

  • A nationwide moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. ET marked the first plane’s impact, with additional pauses aligned to each attack timeline.
  • Washington state and U.S. flags were flown at half-staff until sunset in accordance with gubernatorial directive, uniting government facilities in solemn tribute.

National Day of Service

  • Across the country, volunteers participated in food drives, neighborhood cleanups and blood donations as part of the annual National Day of Service, transforming remembrance into acts of community support.

Looking Ahead

Communities will continue local vigils and educational programs throughout the weekend, ensuring that the legacy of sacrifice and solidarity endures beyond today’s formal ceremonies.