Japan Commemorates First Anniversary Of Earthquake And Tsunami

RIKUZENTAKATA, JAPAN - MARCH 11: The single pine tree left standing after the March 11th tsunami, which swept away an entire forest in the city of Rikuzentakata is seen amongst the ruins of Rikuzentakata on March 11, 2012 in Rikuzentakata, Japan. People see the tree's miraculous survival as a symbol of hope and want to preserve it as a living monument. On the one year anniversary, the areas most affected by last year's March 11, 2011 earthquake and subsequent tsunami that left 15,848 dead and 3,305 missing according to Japan's National Police Agency, continue to struggle. Thousands of people still remain without homes living in temporary dwellings. The Japanese government faces an uphill battle with the need to dispose of rubble as it works to rebuild economies and livelihoods. Across the country people are taking part in ceremonies to pay respects to the people who lost their lives. (Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images)