25th Anniversary of September 11: Commemorative Events and Protocols

American flags will be flown at half-staff across the United States on September 11, marking the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that claimed the lives of 2,977 people. The day includes memorial ceremonies, moments of silence, and service events nationwide. Federal agencies, state governments, organizations, and private citizens are mobilized to honor Patriot Day.

Legal proceedings related to the attacks continue. A trial date of June 5, 2028, has been set for Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the alleged 9/11 mastermind, and three co-defendants at Guantánamo Bay. This follows the failure of a proposed plea agreement.

Key Points

• 25 years have passed since the September 11, 2001, attacks.
• U.S. flags will be flown at half-staff on September 11 to observe Patriot Day.
• Moments of silence and commemorative events take place nationwide.
• A seventh moment of silence honors those who died from 9/11-related illnesses and injuries.

Significance of September 11

September 11 is one of the most solemn dates on the American calendar. In 2001, Congress designated the date as Patriot Day. Annual observances include flying the American flag at half-staff to honor those who lost their lives.

The 2026 commemoration is especially significant as it marks a quarter-century since the attacks. Many young Americans lack personal memory of the events. The ceremonies focus on remembering victims, recognizing survivors, and honoring those affected by the attacks.

Half-Staff Flag Protocol

The American flag is flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Patriot Day. The protocol involves raising the flag briefly to its peak before lowering it to half-staff, then raising it again before lowering it for the night.

Memorial Ceremonies and Moments of Silence

This year’s observance emphasizes remembrance. The ceremony at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum will begin at 8:30 a.m. and include readings of victims’ names.

Seven moments of silence are planned. Six mark key events of September 11, 2001, while a seventh acknowledges those who died from related illnesses.

Moments of Silence Schedule

• 8:46 a.m.—Flight 11 strikes the North Tower.
• 9:03 a.m.—Flight 175 strikes the South Tower.
• 9:37 a.m.—Flight 77 strikes the Pentagon.
• 9:59 a.m.—South Tower collapses.
• 10:03 a.m.—Flight 93 crashes near Shanksville.
• 10:28 a.m.—North Tower collapses.

The seventh silence follows the reading of names and will be part of the ceremony permanently.

Commemorative Activities

Beyond official ceremonies, exhibitions and educational programs mark the anniversary. The “Our Flag Was Still There” installation at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum explores the flag’s symbolism after the attacks.

Patriot Day is also a National Day of Service and Remembrance. Americans are encouraged to remember victims through volunteer work and community involvement. Local governments, veterans groups, and civic organizations will hold memorial programs.