Earlier this month, Captain Tom Moore thought he would raise a little money for his country in a time of crisis; the World War II veteran set a goal of walking 100 laps around his garden to raise $1,200 "for the sake of the nurses and the NHS we have, because they are doing such a magnificent job." After all, it was the NHS who helped him recover from a broken hip and skin cancer. To date, Captain Moore's small gesture has raised over $39 million, according to the BBC.
Moore turns 100 today, and has received over 120,000 birthday cards, most of which has had to be stored at his grandson's school. The most treasured one, however, came from his boss:
"I am so pleased to know that you are celebrating your one hundredth birthday," Her Majesty, who is head of the armed forces, wrote.
"I was also most interested to hear of your recent fundraising efforts for NHS Charities Together at this difficult time. I send my congratulations and best wishes to you on such a special occasion.
Elizabeth R."
The excitement didn't stop there: Captain Moore received a rather special gift for his birthday; he was promoted to honorary colonel.
The Chief of the General Staff in charge of the appointment said that Captain Moore's "mature wisdom, no-nonsense attitude and humor in adversity make him an inspirational role model to generations."
Captain -- pardon me -- Colonel Moore said he never anticipated the promotion, but graciously accepted it.
"I'm still Captain Tom, that's who I really am but if people choose to call me colonel, well, thank you very much," he said.
Additionally, the newly-appointed colonel received a flypast by the Royal Air Force and a message from Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
We'll leave you now with a few words from the adorably gracious birthday boy.