Patriot Day

Federal law requests that the U.S. flag be displayed at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Patriot Day. The observance honors those killed in the September 11 attacks, recognizes the bravery of responders, and marks a national day of remembrance and resolve.

Provenance

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Mast interpretation

Patriot Day is observed each September 11 in remembrance of the people killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks. The observance also recognizes the courage and service of emergency responders and others who aided victims in New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.

Federal law requests that the United States flag be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Patriot Day. The direction applies nationwide for the full day according to local sunrise and sunset times.

Because Patriot Day is established in federal law as an annual observance, Mast includes the recurring schedule while retaining the linked statutory source for verification.

Source record

Authority and evidence

36 U.S.C. 144

This page summarizes Mast’s reading of the published order. Consult the issuing authority for the original record.

Official source Read the related Mast guide

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Corrections and revisions

No public corrections are recorded.

Editorial information

Written and maintained by Josh Forehand

Last reviewed August 12, 2026