Warning: contains spoilers for Blood Hunt #3!Sam Wilson recently ascended to the role of Captain America and now Marvel has confirmed why he was the perfect person for the job. Earth’s heroes are facing one of their darkest moments, literally. A vampire uprising has cast the planet into darkness, and the heroes need a rallying point. Enter Sam Wilson, who, in Blood Hunt #3, does Steve Rogers proud with a rousing call to arms.

In Blood Hunt #3, written by Jed MacKay and drawn by Pepe Larraz, a legion of vampires, led by Blade, who has seemingly turned his back on his former friends. Using the Dark Force, they have blackened out Earth’s sun. Now, Earth’s heroes are overrun and Doctor Strange, who could be key to stopping the invasion, is off the table. Captain Marvel asks Sam Wilson to give a pep talk.

Sam protests, but Carol brushes these concerns off, telling Sam he is an “icon.”

Sam then gives an epic speech that helps inspire hope.

Blood Hunt Shows Steve Rogers Was Right About Sam Wilson

Sam Wilson Is More Than a Shield and a Uniform

Sam Wilson’s path to becoming Captain America has been a long one. Initially known as the Falcon, Sam Wilson has been one of Captain America’s biggest allies since his debut over 50 years ago. So closely intertwined are their legacies that Sam was a natural choice to replace Steve Rogers. The two now share the title of Captain America, but for Sam, it has proven a difficult legacy to live up to, but his actions in Blood Hunt #3, show Steve made the right choice.

Being Captain America is more than putting on the uniform and slinging the shield. Captain America was created during some of the 20th century’s darkest days, and during that time, became a focal point for a weary nation. These qualities served Captain America well upon his return to the modern world. Thanks to his extended periods leading the Avengers, Captain America has become the de facto leader of the entire Marvel Universe. As such, Cap is often the one encouraging and lifting his teammates, and this includes delivering great speeches that stir the spirit.

Sam Wilson’s Speech Would Have Made Steve Rogers Smile

Sam Wilson’s “No” Became a Rallying Point for the Heroes

And after Sam Wilson’s actions in Blood Hunt #3, Marvel has erased all doubt about his leadership abilities. Sam’s speech hits all the right notes, and echoes across a world plunged into darkness. Captain America’s speech radiates with empathy and understanding, telling the vampires “no.” Sam had serious doubts about his ability to do what Steve Rogers can do almost seamlessly, but as Captain Marvel points out, people still look at him as Captain America. And just like Steve, Sam Wilson is a great leader–and a worthy choice as successor.

Blood Hunt #3 is on sale now from Marvel Comics!