The verb phrase "did become" is central to the query, indicating a process of official designation. Patriot Day was established as an annual national day of observance when President George W. Bush signed Public Law 107-89 on December 18, 2001. This joint resolution of Congress authorized the President to issue a yearly proclamation designating September 11 as "Patriot Day." The first such proclamation occurred on September 4, 2002, formally recognizing the day for the first time.
The legislative vehicle for this designation was House Joint Resolution 71. This law amended Title 36 of the United States Code, which codifies patriotic and national observances. The statute explicitly requests that the President call on all departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States to display the flag at half-staff on Patriot Day. It also asks the American people to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and a moment of silence to honor the individuals who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
It is crucial to interpret the term "official holiday" correctly in this context. While Patriot Day is an official, federally recognized day of observance mandated by law, it is not a federal holiday. This means that government offices, schools, and private businesses are not required to close, and employees do not receive paid time off. Its designation is one of solemn remembrance and mourning rather than a celebratory holiday involving a day of rest.
