Captain Tom Moore claps for NHS on 72nd anniversary of health service
Captain Tom Moore has applauded the NHS on its 72nd birthday as a demonstration of his gratitude for the national health service.
Launched in 1948 by then-health minister Aneurin Bevan, the NHS has prided itself on providing free healthcare for those in need in the UK.
Sunday 5 July marked the 72nd anniversary of the healthcare system, a milestone that was celebrated with a nationwide clap at 5pm.
Captain Moore joined in the celebration from the comfort of his home, sharing a video on Twitter of himself clapping while sitting in an armchair.
“Happy 72nd Birthday @NHS Thank you for all that you do for us,” the centenarian wrote.
He also included the hashtag “#TomorrowWillBeAGoodDay”, in reference to the phrase he said upon turning 100 in April.
Captain Moore quickly became a household name when news spread of his fundraiser for NHS Charities Together earlier this year.
The Second World War veteran pledged to walk 100 laps of his garden in the lead-up to his 100th birthday, a challenge that resulting in him raising more than £30m.
After sharing the video of himself clapping for the NHS on Sunday, several Twitter users praised Captain Moore in the comments below.
Happy 72nd Birthday @NHS
Thank you for all that you do for us 💙👏 #ThankYouTogether #NHSBirthday#TomorrowWillBeAGoodDay pic.twitter.com/gYGVmXe7jp— Captain Tom Moore (@captaintommoore)
“Thank you Captain Tom for all the kindness, respect and perseverance you have shown our country. You’re a role model to my 80-year-old father!” one person said.
“Bless you @captaintommoore thank you too for all you have done for this country and the NHS, you are an inspiration!!” another stated.
Shortly before his birthday, it was announced that Captain Moore had been promoted to the title of Honorary Colonel.
Not long after, it was confirmed that the retired army officer was to receive a knighthood following a recommendation from the prime minister.
Captain Moore later said he was “delighted“ to be receiving a knighthood for his fundraising efforts.
Speaking on BBC Breakfast, he joked: “I hope [the Queen is] not very heavy-handed with the sword as by then I might be rather a poor old weak soul.”
The veteran is to release two books in support of The Captain Tom Foundation, one of which is an autobiography.
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