National Patriot Day Remembrance Flag Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. McGuire, John J. [R-VA-5]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 29, 2026
Bottom line
The bill establishes the Freedom Flag as the official national symbol for 9/11 remembrance, requiring its display at numerous federal sites and supporting educational initiatives.
What it actually does
This bill designates the Freedom Flag as the national symbol of remembrance for September 11, 2001. It mandates that the Freedom Flag be displayed annually from September 11 through the end of September at various federal locations, including the Capitol, the White House, national cemeteries, major military installations, and offices of the Secretaries of State, Defense, and Veterans Affairs, as well as all United States Postal Service post offices. The bill also specifies the flag's order of precedence and disposal practices.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that designating the Freedom Flag as a national symbol provides a unifying and meaningful way to honor the nearly 3,000 victims, heroic first responders, and all those affected by the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. They emphasize the flag's specific design elements, which symbolically represent the various aspects of the tragedy and the nation's response, serving as an important educational tool for future generations who did not experience the events directly. The flag's adoption by several state legislatures further demonstrates its widespread acceptance as a symbol of remembrance.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that designating a specific flag as a national symbol for 9/11 remembrance could be seen as an unnecessary federal mandate, potentially leading to logistical complexities and costs for federal facilities required to display it. Some may contend that existing national symbols are sufficient for remembrance or that such designations are best left to local discretion rather than federal law. Concerns could also be raised about adding another flag to the official order of precedence.
The bill is exceptionally concise, allowing for a complete reading and understanding in a very short amount of time.
Section 3, amending Chapter 9 of title 36, United States Code
Designation and Required Display of the Freedom Flag
This provision officially designates the Freedom Flag as the national symbol for remembering the events of September 11, 2001. It mandates that this flag must be displayed each year from September 11 through the end of September at prominent federal locations, including the U.S. Capitol, the White House, all national cemeteries, major military installations, and the official offices of the Secretaries of State, Defense, and Veterans Affairs, as well as every U.S. Postal Service post office. The bill further specifies that the flag must be publicly visible, follow the POW/MIA Flag in the order of precedence, and be retired according to Veterans Affairs flag disposal practices.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this provision ensures a consistent and visible national symbol for 9/11 remembrance, fostering unity and ensuring that the sacrifices and lessons of that day are never forgotten. They highlight the flag's thoughtful design, which encapsulates the various aspects of the tragedy and heroism, making it an effective tool for educating current and future generations.
Critics contend
Some critics might argue that mandating the display of a specific flag could impose unnecessary administrative burdens and costs on federal agencies, diverting resources that could be used for other remembrance activities. Others may prefer that federal entities retain discretion in choosing how to commemorate historical events, or that existing national symbols are sufficient without adding another specific designation.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the desire for a uniform national symbol of remembrance with potential administrative costs and the question of whether such a specific mandate is the most effective or appropriate way to honor 9/11. There is also a tension between establishing a new national symbol and relying on existing patriotic emblems.