Biden, Survivors Pay Tribute on Anniversary of Boston Marathon Bombings

Vice President Joe Biden spoke at a memorial event marking the one year anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombings in the city. Biden was joined by Massachussetts Gov. Deval Patrick and others to remember the day before a moment of silence from 2:30 to 3 p.m. at the marathon finish line later in the afternoon. At 2:49 p.m., the moment the bombs went off last year, church bells rang  through the city. 

In his speech, Joe Biden told the invite-only crowd of survivors, first responders, and family members that their recovery over the past year has been inspirational for the entire country. "We are Boston. We are America. We respond. We endure. We overcome. And we own the finish line," he concluded. 

President Obama was not in attendance. But he released a statement on the anniversary earlier in the day:

A year ago, tragedy struck at the 117th Boston Marathon. Four innocent people were killed that week, and hundreds more were wounded. Today, we remember Krystle Campbell, Lingzi Lu, Martin Richard, and Sean Collier. And we send our thoughts and prayers to those still struggling to recover.

We also know that the most vivid images from that day were not of smoke and chaos, but of compassion, kindness and strength: A man in a cowboy hat helping a wounded stranger out of harm’s way; runners embracing loved ones, and each other; an EMT carrying a spectator to safety. Today, we recognize the incredible courage and leadership of so many Bostonians in the wake of unspeakable tragedy. And we offer our deepest gratitude to the courageous firefighters, police officers, medical professionals, runners and spectators who, in an instant, displayed the spirit Boston was built on – perseverance, freedom and love.

One year later, we also stand in awe of the men and women who continue to inspire us – learning to stand, walk, dance and run again. With each new step our country is moved by the resilience of a community and a city. And when the sun rises over Boylston Street next Monday – Patriot’s Day – hundreds of thousands will come together to show the world the meaning of Boston Strong as a city chooses to run again.

Although the highest profile of Tuesday's events, the anniversary tribute was one of many ways that the nation marked the deadly bombing anniversary.