MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Many around the globe took a moment Saturday to remember the devastation and heartache that united the world one year ago.

Sunday marks the one-year anniversary of the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan. It was the most expensive natural disaster in history. (Click here to view a photo gallery of images from Japan as it gets ready for the anniversary.)

Nearly 1,600 people died in the disaster, and more than 3,000 are still considered missing. The massive waves wiped out buildings, and carried trucks through the streets as those they were logs.

People in Minnesota are honoring those who lived through the devastation. The Japan America Society of Minnesota hosted a memorial Saturday.

The organization also distributed hand-drawn pictures from children who are living in the affected areas. You’ll find them hanging through the end of the month at four Japanese restaurants and stores around town.