One year ago today, 19 students and two teachers were killed at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Today, President Joe Biden somberly marked the occasion in a speech from the White House, with First Lady Jill Biden by his side, and 21 candles behind him. "I realize it's a very tough day for all the families," he began. "Remembering is important, but it's also painful."

He went on to recount tragedy, and what followed. "Too many schools, too many everyday places have become killing fields in communities all across every part of America," Biden said. "And in each place, you hear the same message: Do something. For God's sake, please, do something. We did something afterwards, but not nearly enough."

He used the speech to call to ban AR-15 firearms and high capacity magazines, and for stricter gun control, as "guns remain the number one killer of children in America."

Biden continued, "We can't end this epidemic until Congress passes some common sense gun safety laws to keep weapons of war off the streets and out of the hands of dangerous people. Until states do the same thing. How many more parents will live their worst nightmare before we stand up to the gun lobby?"

The President said, "It’s time to act. It’s time to make our voices heard. Not as Democrats or Republicans. But as friends, neighbors, parents, and as fellow Americans, and I'm being deadly earnest when I say that."

Watch President Biden's full remarks:

You Might Also Like

• 12 Weekend Getaway Spas For Every Type of Occasion

• 13 Beauty Tools to Up Your At-Home Facial Game