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President Obama: 'We Stand In Awe' Of Marathon Bombings Survivors

WASHINGTON (CBS/AP) — President Barack Obama observed the anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing with a moment of silence at the White House.

Images: Day of Remembrance

The White House says Obama and his aides held the remembrance privately Tuesday afternoon.

The moment of silence was held at 2:49 p.m., the same time two bombs exploded near the finish line of the marathon last April 15.

The attack killed three and wounded hundreds.

The White House released this statement from the president late Tuesday morning:

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.

Watch: Biden Speaks At Memorial

Vice President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, attended a memorial service at the Hynes Convention Center. Biden delivered remarks in tribute to victims of the bombing, as well as the survivors and first responders.

(TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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