MAYPORT, Fla. – At 7:55 a.m. Friday -- a time that lives in infamy -- more than 200 veterans gathered at Mayport Naval Station to remember those who lost their lives in the Pearl Harbor attacks.
Friday marked the 71st anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that killed thousands of people and launched the United States into World War II.
Several Pearl Harbor survivors attended this year's Mayport ceremony, which was held aboard the USS DeWert.
"This is a yearly event hosted by the Fleet Reserve Association," Austin said.
"They've been conducting this event since 1966. It's a Mayport tradition. It's a real chance for us to honor the sacrifice of those lost in the attack on Pearl Harbor."
IMAGES: Solemn ceremony at Mayport
INTERACTIVE 10 things about Pearl Harbor
Austin said because Jacksonville is a Navy town, there is a lot of community support for this ceremony, adding he truly enjoys attending these ceremonies.
"I
've gone to several of these events and it's always amazing because Pearl Harbor survivors in particular can relay to you in great detail where they were when the bombs started flying in Pearl Harbor," Austin said.
President Barack Obama called for flags to fly at half-staff Friday in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the attacks.