Obama pays tribute to victims of Boston Marathon bombing

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama is paying tribute to the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing on its first anniversary with a moment of silence in the Oval Office.

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

In a written statement, Obama praised the courage and leadership of Bostonians in the wake of tragedy. He said those injured have been awe-inspiring in their recovery.

Obama says this year's race, scheduled for Monday, will, in his words, "show the world the meaning of Boston Strong as a city chooses to run again."

Vice President Joe Biden is in Boston for a memorial service. He says those who lost loved ones are an inspiration for other Americans dealing with tragedy.