American Flags at Half-Staff
The United States observes the 25th anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, by flying American flags at half-staff. This commemorative gesture honors the 2,977 lives lost and the impact the attacks had on the nation. As Patriot Day approaches, memorial ceremonies, moments of silence, and various service events are scheduled across the country. Organizations and citizens are urged to take part in these remembrances.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Alongside these observances, the anniversary coincides with legal proceedings continuing against those accused of orchestrating the attacks. A military judge recently scheduled the trial for Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and three co-defendants at Guantánamo Bay for June 5, 2028, after a plea agreement failed.
Significance of Patriot Day
Patriot Day on September 11 remains a poignant date in America’s history. It was designated by Congress as a day of remembrance following the attacks on New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C. Each year, the nation pays tribute by flying flags at half-staff and honoring those who perished.
The 2026 observance carries extra weight as it marks 25 years since the attacks. This milestone serves as a reminder, especially to younger generations who may not have personal memories of the event. The focus is on honoring victims, recognizing survivors, and appreciating first responders, recovery workers, and military personnel impacted by the attacks.
Flag Protocol
Proper protocol for flying the American flag on Patriot Day involves raising the flag to its peak briefly, before lowering it to half-staff. It remains at half-staff from sunrise to sunset.
Memorial Ceremonies and Moments of Silence
Remembrance is central to this year’s observance, with a major ceremony at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York. Scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m., family members will read the names of those who lost their lives that day.
Organizers plan for seven moments of silence throughout the ceremony. The first six correspond with significant events on September 11, including the attacks and collapse of the World Trade Center towers. The newly added seventh moment recognizes individuals who died later from conditions caused by 9/11 exposure.
Participants are encouraged to pause at 8:46 a.m. Eastern time, marking the moment the first plane hit the North Tower.
The timetable for moments of silence during the ceremony is as follows:
- 8:46 a.m.—Flight 11 hits the North Tower
- 9:03 a.m.—Flight 175 hits the South Tower
- 9:37 a.m.—Flight 77 hits the Pentagon
- 9:59 a.m.—Collapse of the South Tower
- 10:03 a.m.—Flight 93 crashes in Pennsylvania
- 10:28 a.m.—Collapse of the North Tower
The seventh moment will follow the reading of names, becoming a regular part of future ceremonies.
Anniversary Observances Nationwide
Beyond official ceremonies, exhibitions and educational programs play a part in marking the anniversary. The National September 11 Memorial & Museum highlights these efforts with the “Our Flag Was Still There” installation, showcasing flags representing Ground Zero, the Pentagon, and post-attack responses. This exhibit symbolizes resilience and unity in the face of loss.
Patriot Day also serves as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. Americans are encouraged to honor the victims by volunteering and engaging in community activities. Across the nation, memorial programs are planned, supported by local governments, veterans groups, and civic organizations.
For further information, Newsweek editors Ben Kelly and Shakeema Edwards can be contacted.