MARSTON MORETAINE (UK) – With flowers and lights, Britain paid homage on Wednesday to Captain Tom Moore, 100, who conveyed a simple message of hope and self-sacrifice during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Outside his home in Marston Moretaine, 50 miles (80 km) north of London, children laid flowers. One message read: “Rest in Peace Captain Tom. We love you. X.”
“You will always be our hero,” read another message. “Thank you for your warmth and your wonderful smile. Rest in Peace.”
His picture was shown on Piccadilly Circus in central London while the London Eye, Wembley Stadium and the Blackpool Tower shone lights of honour.
Condolences were flooded from Queen Elizabeth II, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and even the White House while soccer players, school children and his family were teary-eyed for a man who millions consider a lockdown hero.
“For all those people who are finding it difficult at the moment: the sun will shine on you again and the clouds will go away,” said Moore, dressed in a blazer and tie and displaying his war medals, after completing his walk in April.
Raised in Yorkshire, northern England, Moore has served in India, Burma and Sumatra during World War Two.
He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth at a ceremony at Windsor Castle.
“Her Majesty very much enjoyed meeting Captain Sir Tom and his family at Windsor last year,” Buckingham Palace said. “Her thoughts and those of the Royal Family are with them.”
While Moore emanated modesty, his fame was global. CNN ran a banner headline about his death during the news, and Russia news broadcasts reported that “Tom Moore died like a real soldier” and his death was reported across Asia.
“Whilst he’d been in so many hearts for just a short time, he was an incredible father and grandfather, and he will stay alive in our hearts forever,” his daughters said.
Health Minister Matt Hancock told BBC television: “We should find a way to make sure that we mark the memory of Captain Tom and thank him for the contribution that he made for the NHS (health service).
“He touched the heart of the nation and we should remember that.”