Today marks the 72nd anniversary of Pearl Harbor Day, known for posterity as "the day that will live in infamy." On Dec. 7, 1941, more than 2,400 American troops died after the Imperial Japanese Navy attacked Pearl Harbor in Oahu, Hawaii.

Following the attack, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed the public and referred to the day's events as a "sneak attack."

"Yesterday, Dec. 7, 1941 -- a day which will live in infamy -- the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan," said Roosevelt.

Events will be held both in Hawaii and on the mainland to honor the military men and civilians who lost their lives on the day that thrust America into the second world war. 

Yesterday, Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell held a day of remembrance at the USS Arizona Memorial center near the site of the attack, according to NBC News. 

On Saturday, the Young Marines will lead the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Honolulu. They will carry the banners of the 12 ships that were attacked. The parade aims to honor the heroes and survivors of the attack, and to pay tribute to veterans and active duty military members, according to Newsday. 

The Freedom Bell in Washington, D.C., which is cast in bronze with metal from the World Trade Center, rang in honor of those who served in the armed forces, NBC News reports. Skydivers also unfurled American Flags over Pearl Harbor. 

On Saturday, the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond, Va. will host Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day with speakers and a laying of a wreath in honor of the fallen military members and civilians that were killed. 

In Little Rock, Ark., inclement weather forced the cancellation of ceremonies that were scheduled for Saturday. 

The city of Ventura County, Calif. will also hold a Pearl Harbor Remembrance event at the VFW Military Museum.