PEARL HARBOR - President Barack Obama in Washington issued a statement Wednesday on the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Obama says he and first lady Michelle Obama join Americans in "remembering those who gave their lives" on Dec. 7, 1941.

More than 2,300 service people died that day.

Obama said "we can never repay the profound debt of gratitude we owe to those who served on our behalf."

Thousands, including servicemen and women and members of the public, are expected to attend a ceremony at Pearl Harbor on Wednesday to mark the anniversary.

The president said he will visit the U SS Arizona Memorial later this month with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan.