The keyword phrase "patriot day when did it start" centers on the proper noun "Patriot Day" and seeks information about its origin. This observance was established by U.S. President George W. Bush on December 18, 2001, when he signed into law House Joint Resolution 71. This legislation, which Congress had approved on October 25, 2001, officially designated September 11 of each year as Patriot Day in direct response to the terrorist attacks that occurred on that date.
The establishment created a legal and formal framework for national remembrance. U.S. Code (36 U.S.C. 144) directs the President to issue a proclamation annually, calling on all U.S. government entities, interested organizations, and individuals to display the flag at half-staff. It also requests the observance of a moment of silence to honor the victims. Patriot Day is a national day of observance and is not a federal holiday, meaning schools and businesses typically remain open.
The first official observance of Patriot Day took place on September 11, 2002. The day's scope was later expanded; on April 21, 2009, the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act was signed into law, which also recognized September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. This encourages Americans to participate in community service as a tribute, adding a component of positive civic action to the solemn commemoration.
