Today is Patriot Day, the day we pause to remember those who were killed on September 11, 2001 – and the many people who responded to the tragic events in New York, Washington, Pennsylvania and elsewhere, including rangers, Park Police officers, and other NPS employees.

The National Park Service will also remember the heroic passengers on Flight 93 in services at Flight 93 National Memorial. Secretary Salazar will join Vice President Biden in delivering keynote remarks at the annual September 11th observance, which will begin at 9:30 a.m.

At 10:03 a.m. – the moment Flight 93 crashed – the names of the passengers and crew members will be read and Bells of Remembrance will be rung by members of the Families of Flight 93 and community members who assisted in the aftermath of 9/11. The ceremony will also include a wreath laying at the Wall of Names.

President Obama has also directed that all United States flags be flown at half mast today. In the related proclamation, President Obama also calls “upon the people of the United States to participate in community service in honor of those our Nation lost, to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities, including remembrance services, and to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time to honor the innocent victims who perished as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

For the full text of his proclamation, click on the link below. For a PDF file containing a comprehensive, 132-page report on the National Park Service’s participation in the 9/11 response, see Janet McDonell’s Responding To The September 11 Terrorist Attacks.

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