WASHINGTON, D.C. (WTVR) – Marty Cobb, the eight-year-old boy whose death made national headlines, was honored Thursday morning in Congress.

Virginia Congressman and House Majority Leader Eric Cantor spoke at the U.S. Capitol about Cobb’s life and death.

“He was killed in a heinous act while trying to protect his 12 year old sister from a violent attacker,” Rep. Cantor said. “From the very beginning Martin was a fighter against all odds, surviving open heart surgery at 3 months old, when the doctors didn’t believe he was going to make it. Martin was a student at Elizabeth Redd Elementary School and he enjoyed the kinds of things most kids grow fond of: playing with toy cars and riding his bike around the neighborhood.”

Cantor said Cobb’s mother called her son the “man of the house” because there was no father in the home.

“We will always remember him as a true family man, someone who loved his sister so much that he gave his life to protect her,” Rep. Cantor said. “In the face of grave danger, his only thought, his only instinct, was to help his sister.”

Cantor said Cobb’s death should prompt lawmakers to work to make neighborhoods safer for children.

“Our children should be able to grow up enjoying childhood not fearing for their lives,” Rep. Cantor said. “Martin may no longer be with us, but I hope and pray his strength, his courage, and his spirit endure in each and every one of us.”

A 16-year-old boy was arrested and charged in Cobb’s death. Cobb’s sister survived the attack.