Commonwealth’s Patriot Day Ceremony – 25th Anniversary of September 11

Free Patriotic Concert – 10:30 a.m.

Commonwealth’s Patriot Day Ceremony – 11 a.m.

Patriot’s Way – Immediately Following the Ceremony

Honor • Remember • Inspire

Join the Virginia War Memorial for a special Commonwealth’s Patriot Day observance commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

The morning begins at 10:30 a.m. with a free patriotic concert featuring Global War on Terrorism veteran and musician Jim O’Ferrell, followed by the Commonwealth’s official Patriot Day Ceremony at 11:00 a.m.

This year’s ceremony will honor the 2,977 people killed in the September 11 attacks, recognize the courage and sacrifice of first responders and military personnel, and reflect on the generation of service inspired by that day. The program will feature patriotic music, distinguished speakers, ceremonial tributes, and the reading of the names of those who lost their lives at the Pentagon.

Patriot’s Way

Immediately following the ceremony, guests are invited to experience Patriot’s Way, an interactive gathering of the military, first responders, public safety professionals, and others who continue the legacy of service.

Military equipment and vehicles, fire apparatus, law enforcement vehicles, EMS units, military recruiters, and public-safety organizations will be positioned along the Virginia War Memorial’s bus loop. Visitors will be encouraged to explore the displays and, most importantly, meet and talk with the men and women behind them.

For young people and families, Patriot’s Way provides an opportunity to encounter history through the people who serve today. Students and JROTC cadets can learn about careers and pathways in the military, law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services, emergency preparedness, and other forms of public service.

Twenty-Five Years Later

For an entire generation of Americans, September 11 is now history rather than memory.

On this 25th anniversary, the Virginia War Memorial invites the Commonwealth to come together not only to remember what happened on September 11, 2001, but to recognize the Americans who answered the call to serve afterward—and to inspire the next generation to carry that torch of service forward.

Virginia War Memorial
621 S. Belvidere Street
Richmond, Virginia

Admission and parking are free. All are welcome.