The Virginia War Memorial will host its annual Patriot Day ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 11, honoring all Americans who were killed or injured in the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and United Flight 93 in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, 24 years ago. 

The ceremony, set to begin at 11 a.m., will feature guest speakers, the presentation of memorial wreaths, the tolling of a ship’s bell and patriotic music. Musical selections by the Virginia Barbershop Chorus will begin at 10:45 a.m., and attendees are encouraged to arrive by that time. 

Rear Adm. Samuel Cox, retired director of the Naval History and Heritage Command, will deliver the keynote address. Dr. Clay Mountcastle, director of the War Memorial, and representatives from the Freedom Flag Foundation will also speak. Taps will be played by Sgt. Bradley Kirtner of the 29th Infantry Division Band. 

The Virginia War Memorial at 621 S. Belvidere St. will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A documentary about the Sept. 11 attacks in Virginia will play in Reynolds Theater throughout the day, and a 9/11 exhibit will be on view in the Galanti Education Center. Limited free parking is available in the War Memorial’s surface lots and parking deck. The event is free.