Captain Tom Moore - the 100-year-old former British Army officer who has raised over £32 million for the UK's National Health Service charities - has been knighted by Queen Elizabeth II, BBC News has reported.
The much-deserved knighthood occurred this afternoon (July 17) at an outdoor ceremony at Windsor Castle - just hours after the Queen's granddaughter, Princess Beatrice, got married to Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi at a secret Royal Wedding.
The Queen knighted Sir Tom - who was accompanied by members of his family - using her father's sword.
The honor was the Queen's first face-to-face engagement since March.
Prior to his knighting, the inspirational centenarian told reporters: "I'm absolutely overwhelmed by [the honor]. It isn't everybody that gets the chance to see the Queen, is it? It's going to be absolutely marvelous for me."
"If I kneel down I'll never get up again," he joked.
Sir Tom Moore - who was also made an honorary colonel by the Queen back in April - originally aimed to raise just £1000 for NHS charities. His JustGiving page stated his aim was to walk 10 laps a day of his Bedfordshire garden to reach 100 total (roughly 2,500 meters).
However, after capturing the hearts of the UK and raising the spirits of those around the country amid the pandemic, donations reached £32,796,357 ($41,080,700 USD).
In a message to his supporters on his 100th birthday back in April, Colonel Tom said: "Reaching 100 is quite something. Reaching 100 with such interest in me and huge generosity from the public is very overwhelming.
Captain Tom's is honored with an emotional RAF flypast on his birthday:"People keep saying what I have done is remarkable, however, it's actually what you have done for me which is remarkable.
"I felt a little frustrated and disappointed after I broke my hip and it knocked my confidence. However, the past three weeks have put a spring back in my step. I have renewed purpose and have thoroughly enjoyed every second of this exciting adventure, but I can't keep walking forever.
"The donations page will close at midnight this evening. NHS Charities Together still have their urgent appeal, so people can donate to them that way.
"I am going to spend my birthday with my family, both here in person and with my daughter remotely, and then I am going to have a few days' rest. My legs may be tired, but my mind is racing and I'm hoping to be back very soon with other ways in which I can help people, help others.
"Please always remember, 'Tomorrow Will Be A Good Day'. With my sincerest gratitude, Captain Tom Moore."
Ellie Orton, chief executive of the charity NHS Charities Together, told BBC News back in April: "I think I absolutely join the rest of the country in being truly inspired and profoundly humbled by Captain Tom and what he has achieved. Thank you for being an inspiration and a role model."
The money raised is to be spent on well-being packs for NHS staff, rest and recuperation rooms, electronic devices that will allow patients to stay in contact with their loved ones, and working with community groups to supporting discharged patients.
Congratulations, Sir Tom!
.png_9grdjU?tr=h-184)
