Patriot Day 2023: On September 11, Patriot Day affords us all the opportunity to reflect on the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. We commemorate those who we lost and give thanks to the brave first responders who placed their lives on the line. Consider today what our nation stands for and how we can work together to make the world a better place for everyone.
On September 11, Patriot Day commemorates the valor of American citizens and uniformed personnel in the face of one of the world’s most horrific terrorist attacks.
Patriot Day 2023: HISTORY
When four aircraft were hijacked on September 11, 2001 (also known as 9/11), it was a terrifying day. The hijackers crashed three aircraft into two iconic structures: the Pentagon in Washington, DC, and the World Trade Center Twin Towers in New York. The fourth plane fell in a field in Pennsylvania after passengers engaged the hijackers in combat. Nobody knows for certain where the plane was intended to crash, but some assume it was headed for the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, or one of several eastern nuclear power plants.
This attack had a devastating effect. There were approximately 3,000 fatalities among plane passengers, those in the buildings that were impacted, and first responders attempting to save lives. It was the largest terrorist attack ever committed in the United States. Since then, many countries have increased airplane security in an effort to prevent future terrorist attacks similar to September 11th.
As people were trapped and stranded at the summit of the burning skyscraper, the majority of lives lost were those who worked in the Twin Towers, particularly on floors above the collision point. 411 men and women employed in emergency services perished while fighting fires and rescuing people from structures. It was a devastating attack, so President George W. Bush proclaimed Patriot Day, which is celebrated annually on September 11.
On Patriot Day, U.S. flags are lowered to half-staff and a national moment of silence is observed at 8:46 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time), the time when the first aircraft struck one of the Twin Towers. Although the attacks occurred in the United States, Patriot Day is celebrated globally because the news devastated and affected people everywhere.
5 FACTS CONCERNING PATRIOT’S DAY
- There were a total of 19 individuals involved in the hijackings.
- Approximately 75% to 85% of victims were male.
- Approximately 123 billion dollars were lost in the first two to four weeks after the incident.
- It cost approximately $750 million to remove the debris.
- In 1993, there was a bombing that killed six persons.
WHY PATRIOT DAY IS CONSIDERABLE
With nearly 3,000 lives lost during the attack, it’s important to take a moment and recognize those whose lives were cut short. Families of every type of worker were affected. Families and acquaintances must honor those who sacrificed their lives to save others and those who were affected by their actions.
With an attack as devastating as nine-eleven, it is essential to remember how much security has improved over the years. Remembering this assault will ensure that safety precautions are taken when traveling, attending work, or attending public events.
As grisly and distressing as many of the stories surrounding this event are, it is essential to give those affected the opportunity to share their experiences. By discussing personal events with others, we can honor those involved and be reminded of the significance of safety.
PATRIOT DAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | September 11 | Monday |
2024 | September 11 | Wednesday |
2025 | September 11 | Thursday |
2026 | September 11 | Friday |
2027 | September 11 | Saturday |