The keyword term, "Patriot Day," functions as a proper noun. The observance was officially established on December 18, 2001, when President George W. Bush signed into law a joint resolution by the U.S. Congress. This legislation requested the President to designate September 11 of each year as the day for national remembrance.
The specific act is Public Law 107-89. Following the enactment of this law, President Bush issued the first annual proclamation for the observance on September 4, 2002. This proclamation officially designated September 11, 2002, as the first Patriot Day, calling upon the people of the United States to mark the occasion with appropriate ceremonies and remembrance activities.
The day is a national observance, not a federal holiday, intended to honor the individuals who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The authorizing law directs that the American flag be flown at half-staff and calls for a moment of silence. On April 21, 2009, the name was amended to "Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance" to also encourage community service in tribute to the victims and responders.
