The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that its national cemeteries will hold a day of service and remembrance on September 11, marking the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. This annual event coincides with Patriot Day, established by Public Law 107–89, which encourages Americans to honor the victims of the September 11 attacks each year.
In partnership with Carry The Load, a nonprofit organization, VA’s National Cemetery Administration is organizing events at more than 60 VA national cemeteries across the country. Volunteers will have opportunities to clean headstones and take part in other beautification activities at these sites.
Forty-seven veterans and their dependents who died as a result of the September 11 attacks are buried or memorialized in VA national cemeteries. The largest number are interred at Calverton and Long Island national cemeteries in New York.
“VA cemeteries are an ideal place to reflect on the heroism and sacrifice of 9/11,” said VA Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs Sam Brown. “This Patriot Day, we invite all Americans to visit participating VA cemeteries, where they can help honor and preserve the legacies of the victims, first responders, servicemembers and families touched by 9/11.”
Stephen Holley, co-founder, president, and CEO of Carry The Load and a veteran U.S. Navy SEAL, added: “On Patriot Day, we encourage Americans to honor the memory of those lost on 9/11 by serving in their communities and sharing stories of the first responders and military who sacrificed to keep us safe. Together we can make a positive impact and show our gratitude for those who sacrificed so much for our freedom.”
Individuals interested in joining the day of service can register to participate. Supplies will be provided at no cost.
