Winter is here and, per usual, it's brought lower temperatures and an increased chance you'll catch a cold. While we can't guarantee you'll stay 100% healthy all season, we can provide plenty of tips for staying healthy and lowering your chances of picking up an inconvenient illness.

Let's get started so you can begin your journey toward a healthier winter.

Wash Your Hands Regularly

This one's simple and incredibly effective. Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you can easily spread germs on your hands when you touch contaminated surfaces or objects and then touch your mouth, nose or eyes. That's why it's so essential for you to wash your hands regularly throughout the day.

It's especially important to wash your hands after blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing, using the toilet or touching garbage.

But placing your hands under a running faucet isn't enough. The CDC advises you to wash them with soap for at least 20 seconds (or, if it helps, that's the length of time it takes to sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice).

Don't Forget Hand Sanitizer

Washing your hands is important, but if you aren't able to on the go, having hand sanitizer helps too. Fortunately, it's very easy to purchase travel-sized hand sanitizer that can easily slip into your pocket or bag. Plenty of communal spaces — from gas stations to stores — also make hand sanitizer available to customers looking to kill germs they've picked up while out and about.

Get Plenty of Sleep

The idea of sleeping through those cold winter days certainly sounds appealing, but it can actually help you stay healthy too. Mayo Clinic states that poor health in adults is linked to receiving fewer than 7 hours of sleep in a night.

For those ages 13 to 18, Mayo Clinic recommends 8-10 hours of sleep per 24 hours, and for those 19 and up, 7 or more hours per night.

Stay Hydrated

On cold days, you likely want something warm to drink, but don't lose sight of the value of consuming water daily. Drinking water regularly helps you maintain a normal temperature and encourages your body to rid itself of waste, according to the CDC.

When possible, try to choose water over overly sugary alternatives. And if you haven't already, consider getting a water bottle you can fill up regularly throughout the day.

Manage Stress

The holidays, more traffic, shorter days, icy roads, snow — all ingredients for increased stress. And while stress is pretty unavoidable sometimes, too much of it can do real harm to your body.

Per Mayo Clinic, it's easier for the body to get sick after stress has lowered the immune system. Additional effects of stress include fatigue, headaches, chest pain, stomach issues and sleep problems (and we already covered how important sleep is).

To better manage stress, remember to eat healthy, exercise and practice relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation.

Embrace Winter

Finally, embrace the winter season — it's not all bad, right? Find joy in the simple pleasures, like building a snowman or enjoying a cozy night by the fireplace. A positive attitude can do wonders for your physical, mental and emotional well-being.

Practice Healthy Habits Year-Round

All of these tips can help you this winter, but they work in spring and beyond as well. Germs never rest, so make sure you're defending yourself against them. Also, don't hesitate to reach out to AFBA for assistance managing your health and well-being.

Here's a fun fact: Did you know the National Guard is older than the Army and even the country?

December 13th, 2023 marks this military force's 387th birthday — a testament to its enduring legacy of service and sacrifice. As we celebrate this milestone, it's important to commemorate not just the history of the institution, but also the brave men and women who have served and safeguarded our nation for nearly four centuries.

Join us as we take a deeper dive into the history and significance of the U.S. National Guard.

When Was the National Guard Established?
Today, the National Guard includes both the Army National Guard as well as the Air National Guard. However, long before the invention of the airplane, the organization began as a colonial militia force, tracing its roots back to Massachusetts.

On December 13th, 1636, the Massachusetts Bay Colony organized the 181st Infantry, the 182nd Cavalry, the 101st Field Artillery and the 101st Engineer Battalion to protect itself. These four regiments still stand as the oldest units in the U.S. military.

What About the Air National Guard?
While the National Guard is older than the Army, the Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force are actually the same age. That's because, prior to 1947, the two were part of the Army Air Corps (later changed to Army Air Forces during WWII). However, the National Security Act would officially separate the two branches on September 18th of that same year, eventually transferring the Army Air Forces units to the newly established Air National Guard as an aerial reserve component.

The Role of the National Guard
As a state-based military force, the National Guard plays a pivotal role in responding to domestic emergencies and natural disasters, as well as defending our country when necessary. They operate as a dual-purpose institution for both state and federal missions across U.S. states and territories — even deploying overseas. With diverse capabilities, from combat to humanitarian work, the National Guard is dedicated to responding to critical emergencies, preserving homeland security and supporting global peace efforts.

What Does it Mean to be Part of the National Guard?
While National Guard servicemembers are sometimes lampooned as "weekend warriors," this jab couldn't be further from the truth. Being a member of the National Guard carries an immense commitment to service, readiness and community. They may be citizen-soldiers, but they maintain a delicate balance of military duty with civilian work — all while undergoing rigorous training to prepare for times of crisis. That way, they're ready to defend, protect and serve the nation on a moment's notice.

Commemorating the National Guard's Birthday
The National Guard's birthday isn't a national holiday, nor is it a free day off of work or school. However, that doesn't mean the day isn't celebrated. Many servicemembers make a point to commemorate December 13th to honor military heritage as well as the sacrifice of their brothers and sisters in arms. One common event is the cake-cutting ceremony, in which the oldest member of a Guard unit and the youngest cut a large cake to share with everyone. Some units might also host local celebrations, gathering with other members of the Guard and the larger community.

Recognizing 387 Years of Service and Sacrifice
While there won't be any fanfare or parades this December 13th, civilians can still honor the National Guard's birthday by attending community events and expressing their gratitude toward those who have served. Taking the time to hear their stories, learn about their contributions, and actively support veterans and their families is a meaningful way to recognize their sacrifices and perhaps the best way to celebrate this observance.

Podcast popularity has been on the rise in recent years, with millions of listeners and nearly just as many options — and military podcasts are no exception. With so much content, it can feel daunting to search for the perfect series that suits your interests. That's why we took the time to find a few of the best military podcasts across a diverse range of perspectives and topics, from historical viewpoints and foreign policy to personal stories of bravery and courage.

AFBA's Top 5 Military Podcasts
Here are our picks for the top 5 military podcasts:

1. Mentors for Military
The Mentors for Military podcast offers thought-provoking discussions with real people and their stories. Led by a diverse group of 18 veterans, each episode of Mentors offers a captivating glimpse into the experiences of a wide range of servicemembers, from elite forces to Army Rangers.

For those intrigued by military life, this show offers an enlightening view through authentic conversations with veterans. Just sit back and tune in to the engaging conversations they have as if they're sitting with you in your living room.

2. Veteran's PATH
Veteran's PATH is an excellent resource for former military personnel who may be struggling with mental health. Its goal is to help ex-servicemembers find Peace, Acceptance, Transformation and Honor by using practices such as meditation and mindfulness. Not only does Veteran's PATH serve as a vital platform advocating for mental health in the military, but it's also working toward shattering the stigma around these types of issues.

Whether you've considered meditating and you just don't know where to start, or you're curious and want to give it a shot, Veteran's PATH offers a wealth of free content to help you better manage your mental health.

3. Women of the Military
Women of the Military provides a critical platform to elevate the voices of female active-duty servicemembers and veterans. Hosted by the creator of Airman to Mom, Amanda Huffman, each episode exclusively focuses on interviews with women who have served in the military, amplifying their unique stories, experiences and perspectives.

As an Air Force Officer, military spouse and veteran herself, Huffman brings her own background experience to these interesting discussions while covering an array of perspectives. And with a new episode each week, there's plenty of ground to cover and stories to explore.

4. Veterans Chronicles
Veterans Chronicles is a compelling podcast series documenting the remarkable stories of some of America's greatest heroes. Each hour-long episode captures the historical accounts and unique personal narratives of eyewitnesses through in-depth interviews.

Covering moments in military history like D-Day, Hanoi, Baghdad and Fallujah, these stories offer profound insight into the lived experience of our servicemembers, their bravery and the profound impact of their sacrifices. Simultaneously, Veterans Chronicles acts as a living record and tribute to the dedication and valor of our nation's heroes.

5. Military Mom Talk Radio
Finally, our last podcast pick takes a unique perspective on military life. Military Mom Talk Radio offers a supportive and empowering platform for women to share their ideas and concerns around the military lifestyle.

Episodes cover a wide range of topics, such as handling grief, finding a supportive community and more. Through engaging discussions and interviews, hosts Sandra Beck and Robin Boyd help women navigate the complexities of military life, including everything from health care to childcare and eldercare.

Whether you're an active-duty servicemember, a veteran or a civilian, these podcasts serve as important platforms to educate, advocate and gain a deeper understanding of each other and our history.

As Veterans Day fast approaches, it's important to take the time and reflect on the significance of this observance to honor the brave servicemembers who've answered the call of duty. Let's take a closer look at the history of this federal holiday before diving into some ways you can participate.

From Armistice to Veterans Day
The first Veterans Day was celebrated on November 11, 1919 — however, the holiday didn't always go by that name. Following the end of the first World War, President Wilson commemorated the 11th day of the 11th month as Armistice Day; but it wasn't until 1926 that the United States Congress officially recognized the holiday.

After World War II, President Eisenhower issued the first Veterans Day Proclamation, both renaming the observance and shifting its focus to honor all of our nation's veterans.

How To Observe Veterans Day and Honor Our Nation's Heroes
Whether you have a servicemember in your life or you're looking for more ways to show your gratitude this Veterans Day, here are a few ideas to honor our veterans:

1. Take a Moment of Silence
Each year on Veterans Day, there are two minutes set aside for a moment of silence to honor those who have served and their family members at 2:11 PM EST.

2. Extend Your Gratitude
If you know a veteran or meet one, don't forget to thank them for their service. Even this simple expression of appreciation can have a huge impact.

3. Send a Letter or Care Package
Consider sending a personal letter and care package to our servicemembers. Who doesn't appreciate a nice note and fun treats every once in a while, especially while you're away from home?

4. Assist a Veteran You Know
If you have a veteran in your life, be sure to check in with them and see if there's anything you can help them with.

5. Support Military Families in Need
Even if you don't know a military family personally, there are plenty of organizations, like Soldiers' Angels, that allow you to lend a helping hand to families in need.

6. Help Unhoused Vets
Nobody deserves to live on the streets, but especially those who have served our country. Contributing your time or money to organizations like U.S. Vets can go a long way in helping unhoused veterans get back on their feet with a roof over their heads.

7. Make a Donation
If you're feeling generous, consider making a donation to any number of veteran organizations. For example, Disabled American Veterans (DAV) is a great nonprofit offering life-changing support to our nation's heroes.

8. Volunteer Your Time
In addition to U.S. Vets and DAV, there are countless other nonprofits and charities that are in need of helping hands. Volunteering your time at these organizations can be a great way to give back and serve those who have already served.

9. Support Veteran-Owned Businesses
Beyond helping veterans through charity organizations, you can also lend your support to businesses owned by servicemembers. Whether it's a local store or a national brand, providing this economic support is crucial to keep these businesses thriving.

10. Visit a Veteran Memorial
Finally, you can pay your respects to the brave servicemembers who gave the ultimate sacrifice by visiting a local or national veterans' memorial. Feel free to leave a small token of your respect in a fountain or on a gravestone, and consider donating if the memorial has the option.

While our list stops there, that doesn't mean yours should! Don't be afraid to get involved with your local community and find out more ways you can help give back to our nation's heroes.

October 26th marks National Day of the Deployed — an observance created by the organization Soldier's Angels to honor the heroic men and women currently deployed. In other words, it's a day to say "Thank you" for all the sacrifices our active duty servicemembers and their families make in the name of our country.

Of course, this gratitude can extend beyond words to actions, such as sending a care package or volunteering to help out veterans and military families. But before we dive into ways you can support our deployed soldiers, let's first understand why we celebrate the Day of the Deployed.

The history behind the Day of the Deployed
First celebrated in 2006 — when the group Soldiers' Angels approached then-Governor of North Dakota, John Hoeven, to proclaim the day as a time to honor active-duty servicemembers — the Day of the Deployed is a relatively new holiday. However, this was only the start, as, by 2010, the movement to recognize October 26th as the Day of the Deployed had grown to 40 states.

In 2011, Hoeven, who was then a Senator, sponsored a unanimously agreed-upon resolution to designate October 26 as an official national holiday, which is now observed by all 50 states.

But how can you participate in the Day of the Deployed?

Observing the Day of the Deployed
When our troops are deployed, they must leave behind their families, their homes, and almost everything that's familiar to them in service to their country. These significant sacrifices warrant recognition.

Here are a few ways you can give back to those who are currently deployed and their families:

1. Write a letter
One simple way to brighten a soldier's day is to send a thoughtful letter. Even if you don't know them personally, writing a letter to a stranger is sure to lift their spirits, especially when they may be missing home. This small and easy gesture goes a long way in showing your support and spreading love.

2. Send a care package
Speaking of spreading love, nothing shows you care more than a care package — after all, it's in the name! Whether it's clothes, toiletries, snacks or other treats, sending a package of goodies is a surefire way to put a smile on someone's face. Opening up a box of brand-new products from back home is a huge boost to morale, especially when soldiers are deployed overseas in unfamiliar countries.

3. Help a military family
If you know someone who is currently deployed, be a good neighbor and check in with their family. There's a long list of ways you can support them, from offering to help out with repairs around the house to cooking meals or watching their kids. Anything can help take the load off a little — even just listening to them talk about their own challenges.

4. Join a local event
Many communities organize local events, fundraisers and other gatherings on and around the Day of the Deployed to help support our soldiers and their families. Search for one near you to participate in, or, better yet, ask some friends to go with you. These are great opportunities to spread awareness, show your support and give back to the community.

5. Connect with Soldier's Angels
Whether you're having difficulty finding organizations near you or you're interested in the work they're doing, consider connecting with or supporting Soldiers' Angels. Donations are always a welcome option, but with both in-person and virtual volunteering options, anyone is capable of lending a helping hand.

October 8, 2023, was the annual Ms. Veteran America event hosted in Orlando, Florida — a yearly competition meant to honor the service and sacrifice of our women veterans and support our brave sisters who are making the transition back into civilian life and employment.

Not only does the Ms. Veteran America movement encourage and uplift women veterans, but it's also a charity event. All of the proceeds go to Final Salute — a nonprofit organization providing housing for homeless female veterans and their children. With over half of all homeless women veterans being single mothers, this nonprofit organization and the work it does are crucial to supporting our country's military members and families that may otherwise have been left behind.

In total, Ms. Veteran America has helped:

• Raise $760,000+ for the organization.
• Provide 17,000+ days of transitional housing.
• Secure financial assistance and resources for 7,339 people and counting through Savings Assessment and Financial Education (S.A.F.E.) programming.
• Empower 1,764 people and counting through employment transition with the Next Uniform program.

The event's theme, "The Woman Beyond the Uniform," highlights the strength, resilience and courage of our nation's heroic military women. By providing a platform for women veterans to show off their talents and interests beyond their commitment to our country, the Ms. Veteran America event shines a spotlight on the strength, courage and sacrifice of our nation's military women.

This year's Ms. Veteran America title went to Victoria Taylor, a proud combat camera specialist who served active duty in the Marine Corps for four and a half years.

As the newly crowned Ms. Veteran America 2023, Taylor will continue to play an active role in spreading awareness and advocating for women veterans experiencing homelessness. Through education and empowerment, she'll help her fellow sisters in arms confidently transition from military to civilian life — mentally, emotionally and financially by helping them secure stable employment and housing.

Save the Date For Ms. Veteran America 2024
Did you miss out on this year's Ms. Veteran America event? Not to worry! The next annual competition will take place on October 13, 2024, with more location and ticket details to come.

If you or someone you know are interested in competing in next year's event, consider applying as soon as possible. Early registration will open up in January 2024, with general registration going from March 16 to May 31.

Are you part of an organization that's interested in sponsoring the next Ms. Veteran America? Don't hesitate to get in contact with the event organizers and become a partner.

While next year's contestants prepare for the competition, the work of providing safe, suitable and affordable housing to homeless women veterans doesn't stop. If you're looking for a way to support these heroes and their children, and you have the means, consider donating to Final Salute or getting involved with an event near you.

When an enemy strike occurs, there is little time to prepare. The U.S. must remain prepared in case a strike happens to us or our allies. Many countries look to us for guidance and backup, which means it's our responsibility to keep a favorable posture when it comes to proper Armed Forces funding, training and advancement.

We'll explore how the U.S. is able to remain combat-ready.

Lying in Wait

The federal government's primary focus is to serve the people of America by protecting our safety and freedoms. There is an official policy highlighted for the Armed Forces called Military Operations Other Than War (MOOTW) for times when there isn't an active need for warfare, combat or threat of violence.

MOOTW is typically used in times of humanitarian aid, engineering, law enforcement, peacekeeping and disaster response. It's used to deter potential aggressors, protect U.S. interests and support the United Nations' (UN) objectives.

Armed Forces planners' prime objective during conflict is to resolve the situation and return to peaceful conditions. During peacetime, the nation can focus on basic objectives rather than defense and attack.

Training

Generally speaking, Armed Forces members who are not engaged in direct conflict spend their days training at either their home station or other locations around the world. Equipment maintenance and research is necessary during these "downtime" periods.

The Armed Forces must go through consistent times of upgrading including their facilities, drills, supplies, equipment and weapons. Success in warfare depends on preparation, so active duty servicemembers drill consistently, even after they understand their duties. This would include knowing where to be at certain times, what gear to grab and why they are there in the first place. There are times when there's no additional leadership during wartime, and soldiers should be ready.

Support

There are some instances where an Armed Forces regime is asked to support citizens in certain areas. This could include:

• Cleaning up and repairing after natural disasters.
• Assisting civil organizations like police and firefighters with heavy equipment.
• Testing new vehicles, weapons and options.
• Observing to prevent suspicious war activity.
• Cleaning up old conflict areas for weapons and debris.
• Acting as standby guard for internal fights, riots or revolts.
• Transporting helpful goods for civilians, such as food and supplies, after times of crisis.
• Blocking actions to prevent crises.

Family

When soldiers aren't actively on base and training, they're experiencing life just like everyone else. They're taking time to build their family, make memories and achieve personal goals one day at a time.

Being on base and in active deployment can take a lot of time and energy away from the other aspects of life. It's important to recover from what happened while on duty, while being present for the life still happening at home.

All in all, members of the Armed Forces live full lives during their career, and the aspects of their duties change along the way.

September — it's the start of fall, the beginning of football season … and also a great time to celebrate the U.S. Air Force. Why? Well, because this branch of the military marks its 76th anniversary this year on September 18. In honor of this date, here are 10 facts about the Air Force and the daring men and women who keep the skies secure.

1. The Air Force Used to Be Part of the Army

The Air Force celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2022 — but that doesn't commemorate the day the first American aviators took to the sky. Rather, on that day in September 1947, the Air Force and Air Force Command were spun off from the Army, which had been in charge of airborne operations through both World Wars.

2. There Are 17 Air Force Bands

The Air Force Band is one of the premier military ensembles — but "one" is the wrong term. There are two main groups, joined by nine active duty bands, five in the National Guard and one deployed in Southwest Asia. These musicians are heard by six million people a year.

3. Air Force Planes Help Fight Wildfires

When wildfires recently struck California, the Air Force got the call to help with the firefighting effort. Specialized C-130 planes flew 156 missions to battle the blazes in just a single month.

4. NORAD Coordinates Air Defense — And Tracks Santa

The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) is an organization combining U.S. and Canadian air and space defense units. Among other things, it annually runs a popular site that lets kids bring up Saint Nick on the radar as he circles the globe.

5. Women Make Up Over One-Fifth of Air Force Members

The latest data shows that 21.4% of Air Force personnel are women. The service has trained female pilots since 1976, navigators since 1977 and fighter pilots since 1993. Among officers, this figure rises to 23.3% of personnel.

6. The Air Force Academy is the No. 2 Source of Astronauts

Can Air Force training get people ready to go to space? Historically, the answer has been yes. The Air Force Academy has produced 39 astronauts, making it second only to the Naval Academy.

7. "Sully" Had Air Force Training

Commercial Airline Pilot Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger became famous for successfully landing his damaged jet on the Hudson River and saving over 150 passengers' lives. What you may not know is that he's an Air Force Academy graduate from the class of 1973.

8. 17 Air Force Football Players Have Gone Pro

The Air Force Academy's football team, the Falcons, have sent 17 players into the pro ranks, with the most recent being Detroit Lions tight end Garrett Griffin.

9. The Air Force Has a Grateful Dead Connection

Psychedelic rock and the U.S. military don't seem like obvious bedfellows, but in addition to astronauts, aviators and football players, the Air Force produced a member of the Grateful Dead. Keyboardist Tom Constanten played with the Dead from 1968-1970 directly after a stint in the Air Force.

10. The Air Force Museum Has Over 350 Vehicles and Missiles

The Air Force maintains a comprehensive museum on the grounds of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. The facility is the oldest military aviation museum in the world, and also the biggest, spanning 19 acres. All that space is necessary to hold the hundreds of pieces of decommissioned hardware on display.

Now you have 10 facts to share about the Air Force as the branch celebrates its 76th year this September. From early flying aces to astronauts exploring the cosmos, Air Force personnel have worn many hats over the years, and their mission is still evolving today.

Every year since 1979, the third Friday of September has been designated as POW/MIA Recognition Day. It serves to honor two groups of service members — those who were held prisoners of war and returned, and those still unaccounted for.

As of now, the Department of Defense knows of over 81,500 missing personnel from conflicts dating from World War II to the present. POW/MIA Recognition Day provides an annual reminder to remember these brave service members and to become better educated on the efforts to account for those whose fate is still unknown.

The Mission of POW/MIA Recognition Day

President Jimmy Carter designated the first POW/MIA Recognition Day, and ever since, the event has been commemorated with ceremonies at military installations around the world. A recurring feature of this day is a presidential proclamation in which the commander in chief reaffirms the country's commitment to the individuals still missing in action.

The messages offered by presidents, including Joe Biden's 2022 proclamation, reaffirm that the work of identifying and recovering the missing is still ongoing. This September 15 is a good moment to reflect on this effort and the progress being made to give clarity and closure to the families of these service members.

In June of this year, around the unveiling of the official poster for POW/MIA Recognition Day 2023, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) gave an update on its efforts. Over the course of the fiscal year, the group accounted for 81 individuals.

Those efforts from the DPAA involve cooperation with other governments — 45 in all — and include tracing the locations of MIA individuals as well as the repatriation of remains.

The Quest to Locate Missing Service Members

Looking at the numbers, it quickly becomes apparent just how big the task is facing the DPAA. Of the over 81,000 Americans still unaccounted for, over 41,000 are presumed lost at sea due to the loss of ships or aircraft. It can be costly and demanding work to trace the locations of these MIA personnel, but the efforts are ongoing nevertheless.

The Department of Defense offers a look at all the steps necessary to identify and repatriate a lost service member. First, officials in the DPAA analyze and investigate reports of unaccounted for Americans, creating separate case files for each. In cases where relatives of an unidentified service member are available to give DNA samples, officials can disinter remains to determine whether their research has led them to the missing person's final resting place.

Investigation follows, interviewing witnesses and examining the site. If this evidence supports excavation, the site is dug up and the remains recovered. Over the next months or even years, the DPAA performs tests, inspecting historical records, using DNA analysis and conducting forensic studies to determine whether they can conclusively attach an identity to remains. If they can, the identified American is returned home to surviving family members.

Resources for Family of the Missing

The DPAA offers publications and interactive guides that may bring families closer to identifying and locating their unaccounted for loved ones. A fact file explains the process of recovery, from initial planning to arranging a memorial, an interactive guide profiles those still missing and a separate database lists those who have recently been identified.

POW/MIA Recognition Day is a perfect opportunity to check these resources and become more aware of those who have served their country and are still unaccounted for. On this day and all year round, it's important to remember the sacrifices these brave individuals made.

There are few days in U.S. history more consequential or somber than September 11, 2001. Every year since the deadly attacks that took nearly 3,000 lives, Americans have paused on September 11 to remember those who died, and to dedicate themselves to serving their communities.

In December 2001, Congress designated September 11 as Patriot Day, and in 2009, as part of the Serve America Act, the day also became a National Day of Service and Remembrance. By attending a memorial service, sharing your personal memories and experiences or by giving back to your local community this Patriot Day, you can ensure that the indefatigable spirit of the victims lives on.

What Happens Every Patriot Day?

In keeping with its solemn tone, Patriot Day is a time of contemplation and service. In the official White House announcement proclaiming last year's Patriot Day, President Joe Biden described some of the ways the government would be commemorating the anniversary.

All flags flown by government branches, agencies and departments fly at half-staff on September 11. A moment of  silence is observed at 8:46 a.m. eastern time, acknowledging the time when the first World Trade Center tower was struck.

There is also an annual observance ceremony carried out by the National Park Service at the Flight 93 National Memorial. This quiet location in southern Pennsylvania is the place where that flight crashed on September 11 when heroic passengers and crew prevented it from becoming part of the attacks.

The public service organization AmeriCorps also designates September 11 as one of its two annual National Days of Service, alongside Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The group encourages individuals to pledge to serve their neighbors and offers web resources that connect people with opportunities to help out near them.

Beyond these nationwide and local commemorations, each person can go into their community and perform acts of service on their own to ensure they are showing a resolute, civic-minded spirit on this tragic anniversary. This is an opportunity to put good into the world as part of mourning and remembrance.

What Are Some Ways to Observe Patriot Day?

At first, it can be difficult to know how to mark a somber day like September 11. However, there are numerous ways to remember the tragedy and honor the sacrifices of those who died that day through giving back to your community.

Perhaps the most fundamental part of observing the National Day of Service and Remembrance is simply showing love and kindness to the people in your life, friends, family and strangers alike. This attitude is a good foundation for acts of service, and a way to show that you honor the sacrifices of those who gave their lives.

In a more concrete sense, you can also take part in volunteer projects. The National Park Service recommends getting out to serve, and runs its own events, some in conjunction with groups such as The Mission Continues, a nonprofit community impact group that helps veterans acclimate to lives at home following after they've served.

You can also share memories and reminiscences to ensure the sacrifices of those who perished on September 11, 2001, as well as the first responders who gave so much of themselves to provide assistance on that day, lives on. One of the legacies of September 11 is that everyday people can find heroism within themselves, and honoring that is part of Patriot Day.

We at AFBA hope you'll join us in honoring those who gave their lives September 11, 2001, and those who committed brave acts of service that day, on Patriot Day 2023 and beyond.