Bauman Surprises Bruins Fans, Waves 'Boston Strong' Banner

With the Foo Fighters high-energy "All My Life" blasting over the PA system, Jeff Bauman Jr., 27, who lost both legs in the Boston Marathon bombing, appeared on the ice at the TD Garden Saturday night, holding a "Boston Strong" banner in a surprise appearance before the Boston Bruins' hockey game.

According to this Boston Globe story, Bauman, serving as honorary fan banner captain, was introduced with text projected on the ice that read, “By now you know his inspirational story. His perseverance in the face of great adversity represents all that is Boston Strong.” 

When the lights went up, Bauman was extending a Bruins banner in his right hand and pumping his left fist in the air, and the crowd went wild.

Bauman didn't address the crowd, but the following statement was released on his behalf:

“I want to thank everyone for their amazing support for me and all those injured and their families,” Bauman said in the statement. “I’m making great progress and I thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. Please continue to respect our space at this time. I want to thank the Bruins players and organization for the generosity and support for all those impacted.”