The story of Bridger Walker's heroic actions captured the hearts of social media users everywhere this week. The 6-year-old's aunt first shared the story on Instagram, saying that he saved his little sister from a dog attack. "If someone was going to die, I thought it should be me," Bridger told his family afterward.
In the incident, Bridger suffered facial injuries, and received 90 stitches from a plastic surgeon. His aunt, Nikki Walker, also made a call out to the on-screen superheroes of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, of which young Bridger is a fan.
Chris Evans surprises Bridger, boy who saved his sister in dog attack
And "Captain America" himself, Chris Evans, came through with a wonderful surprise. The actor sent a video message with words of high praise — as well as news of an impending gift.
"Hey Bridger. Captain America here. How you doing, buddy?" Evans began.
"I'm sure you've heard a lot of this over the last couple of days, but let me be the next one to tell you, pal, you're a hero!" he said. "What you did was so brave, so selfless, your sister is so lucky to have you as a big brother. Your parents must be so proud of you."
As for the big surprise: "I'm going to send you an authentic 'Captain America' shield, because pal, you deserve it," Evans revealed to Bridger, who was even sporting a full "Captain America" outfit for the video.
Other stars who have reached out so far include Mark Ruffalo, Brie Larsen, Anne Hathaway, and Grant Gustin.
Marvel's screen stars give shoutouts to Bridger
On Instagram, Ruffalo wrote: "Dear Bridger, I just read about what happened to you and I wanted to reach out to say this... People who put the well beings of others in front of themselves are the most heroic and thoughtful people I know. I truly respect and admire your courage and your heart.
"Real courage isn’t dominating people or fighting against people or walking around like a tough guy. Real courage is knowing what is right to do and doing it even when it might end up hurting you somehow. You are more of man than many, many I have seen or known. With Admiration... Mark Ruffalo (Bruce Banner/Hulk/Professor)."
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Hathaway, who played "Cat Woman" in the DCU's The Dark Knight Rises, also devoted a touching Instagram post to Bridger's story.
Bridger's aunt has said that she'll continue to provide updates on the story on her Instagram page. Good on the stars for brightening the day of this hero!