Veterans honor Pearl Harbor survivors - New York News | NYC Breaking News

71 years ago, Americans were devastated by a surprise attack by the Japanese military.  The bombing of Pearl Harbor launched the United States of American into World War II.

On Friday, hundreds remembered the tragedy of that day and honored the survivors.

Seven Pearl Harbor survivors sat attentively in the front row at the Pearl Harbor remembrance in Phoenix.

90-year-old Albert Thomas is proud to be one of them.

"It was quite a spectacle. I didn't realize there were this many people in the Marine corps," he said.

The vets prayed for the estimated 2,400 people who died that day.

"They're here to say their prayers for the shipmates killed at Pearl Harbor," said Bobby Biers, a Vietnam War veteran.

Vietnam War veterans joined other vets to honor their brothers and sisters who survived the sneak attack by Japanese airmen 71 years ago.

"We love one another, there's just a camaraderie, there's a brotherhood, a sisterhood, unless you fought for our country, you never realize that," said Robert Delsi.

"We're here to show our respect to the sailors that were lost at Pearl Harbor. I get choked up," said Biers.

Events like this give Thomas a chance to reflect and remember.

"It's rather hard at my age, because basically, put it this way all the buddies that I had are all dead," he said.

Supporting veterans are moved by their comrade's bravery and honor.

"It just shows you the spirit of America is here and we are not giving up," said Biers.

Thomas is still adventurous and often rides his motorcycle across the state.  He visits Pearl Harbor every year, but couldn't make it this year because his home was burglarized.  He and his daughter are planning a trip to Pearl Harbor next year.