Tragedy can strike at any time and unfortunately, it can sometimes take away the things that mean the most to us. Such was the case in a northern Virginia town, when two little boys were killed in a house fire.

6-year-old William Bryce was staying at his grandparent’s house when a fire erupted. It happened on April 10, and the house burned so quickly, that the grandparents barely made it out alive with 8-year-old Logan. Unfortunately, the two younger children didn’t make it.

William, and his 3-year-old brother, Zachariah, were taken from the house and were unresponsive. Firefighters and paramedics continued to work on them for 45 minutes but unfortunately, they weren’t able to be revived.

The two boys didn’t have any burns so it seems as if they passed away due to smoke inhalation. The family is grieving deeply, but there was something that touched them in the process.

They learned that the two boys were huddled together in the house and it seemed as if William was trying to shield the younger brother from the fire. This was right in line with his personality and he was even wearing a Captain America T-shirt.

When his father, James Brice learned about how the two boys were found together, he said: “We knew that to be his character because that’s just who he is. He, himself, is a hero.”

The firefighters visited the family in the hospital and told them about how they had found the two brothers. They presented William and Zachariah with firefighter medallions, giving them the title of honorary firefighters from the hospital bed.

Jane said: “Zachariah was always following William everywhere and William was so proud. He would tell everyone, ‘That’s my baby brother.’”

Even after they passed away, they still continued to be heroes. Their organs were still strong so they were able to be organ donors.

Unfortunately, the boys were pronounced brain-dead and there was nothing that could be done for them. It was difficult for the family, however, because their hearts were still beating and they could see the vitals but there was no brain activity.

We hope the family is able to find some peace during this difficult time.