December 7, 1941 was one of the most tragic days for America, with some of our nation's veterans still grieving the loss.

"We remind people about the sacrifices that were made 78 years ago, and what happened. Also, how the United States reacted to the attack on Pearl Harbor," said Vietnam Veteran Thomas Cleland.

Roscoe Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2955 came together at Riverside Park to commemorate the Japanese attack on our country.

"If people don't remember it, then as the quote goes, 'We are doomed to repeat our past'," said Cleland.

The veterans pay tribute to over 2,000 veterans and 68 civilians who lost their lives.

"A few brief remarks by the commander. We have a prayer, we throw a wreath into the rock river to commemorate those who were lost," said Cleland.

Taps were played at exactly 11:58 a.m. Saturday morning to mark the exact time the attack took place, which launched the United States into World War II.

"Like president Roosevelt said. It's a day in infamy, and we will never forget it. Throughout all our generations, we will never forget it,” said Commander Ruben Hernandez.