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News | Sept. 7, 2021

Patriot Day: A day of solemn remembrance

By DLA Public Affairs

Sept. 11, 2021, marks the 20th anniversary of al-Qaida’s terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon and the downing of United Airlines Flight 93. The events of that day remain a vivid memory for most Defense Logistics Agency employees.  

Four jet planes were hijacked that day with two of them crashing into the New York World Trade Center and one into the western side of the Pentagon. The fourth plane was directed at Washington D.C., but never arrived as its passengers bravely attempted to take back control. It crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. These acts of terrorism killed 2,996 innocent people including 343 firefighters and 72 police officers. 

Following the attacks, President George H.W. Bush proclaimed Sept. 14 a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the victims. A bill to make Sept. 11 a national day of mourning was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives Oct. 25, 2001, by Rep. Vito Fossella with 22 co-sponsors. The result was the resolution to proclaim Sept. 11, 2002, as the first Patriot Day.

On Patriot Day, American flags are flown at half-staff as a mark of respect for those lives lost and as a visual reminder of the unity and perseverance of the United States. DLA employees are encouraged to reaffirm their patriotism and sense of service felt in the days and months following the attack. Volunteering in local communities is just one way to renew the spirit of unity and compassion.