New London - Members of the U.S. Coast Guard International Ice Patrol held an annual ceremony Wednesday, April 16, to reflect on the sinking of the RMS Titanic and the importance of their mission.

The Ice Patrol was formed after the Titanic hit an iceberg and sank in 1912.

"It is with great respect and reverence that we commemorate the 102nd anniversary of the sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912," Cmdr. Gabrielle McGrath, the unit's commander, said in a statement. "We remember over 1,500 souls who perished on that fateful morning."

Cmdr. Keith Shuley, chaplain of the Coast Guard Academy, dedicated floral arrangements in remembrance of the passengers who died. A moment of silence was held to honor Edward Kamuda, president and founder of the Titanic Historical Society, who died April 13, 2014.