Captain Tom Moore, a World War II veteran who entered the hearts of a closed nation as he poured his garden to raise money for health care workers, died after testing positive for COVID-19. He was 100 years old.
His family announced his death on Twitter, posting a photo with him behind his walking at a happy time, ready for an adventure.
“The last year of our father’s life was nothing but extraordinary. He rejuvenated and experienced things he had only dreamed of, “the family statement said. While he has been in so many hearts for a short time, he has been an amazing father and grandfather and will remain alive in our hearts forever. . “
Captain Tom, as he became known in newspaper headlines and television interviews, set out to raise £ 1,000 for the UK National Health Service, touring 100 laps in his backyard. But his search went viral and captured the imagination of millions of people trapped at home during the first wave of the pandemic. Donations came from across the UK to the United States and Japan, raising about £ 33 million ($ 40 million).
For three weeks in April, fans were greeted with daily videos of Captain Tom, bent over with age, stubbornly pushing his way into the garden. But his cheerful behavior during a dark time inspired people to look beyond illness and loss.
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“Please always remember, tomorrow will be a good day,” Moore said in an interview during his walk, saying the words that have become his trademark.
When Captain Tom finished his 100th round on April 16, a military honor guard lined the road. The celebration continued on his birthday a few days later, when two World War II fighter jets flew overhead in tribute. Moore, with a plaid blanket draped over his shoulders, clenched his fist as they screamed.
In July, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in a socially alienated ceremony at Windsor Castle, west London. The 94-year-old monarch used an incredibly long sword to bestow honor when Moore, with his war medals on his chest, leaned against his gait, smiled and turned into Sir Tom.