CNNi: WWII vet who raised millions amid pandemic dies at 100

Tom Moore, the 100-year-old World War II veteran whose efforts to raise millions for the UK's National Health Service made him a universally adored icon during the first wave of the Covid-19 outbreak, has died in hospital after himself contracting the disease, his family said.

Known affectionately as Captain Tom, Moore raised almost £33 million ($45 million) by walking laps of his garden last year. His exploits united a country frozen in lockdown and made him an unlikely celebrity late in his life, earning him a military promotion, a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II and a number-one single.

Moore tested positive for the virus and was taken to a hospital on Sunday, suffering from breathing problems after being treated for pneumonia, his family said. They announced his death on Tuesday.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear father, Captain Sir Tom Moore," the family said in a statement to PA Media.

"The last year of our father's life was nothing short of remarkable. He was rejuvenated and experienced things he'd only ever dreamed of," they added. "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."

Buckingham Palace said the Queen was sending a private message of condolence to Moore's family, as numerous figures in British politics, culture, sport and society paid tribute to him.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was "a hero in the truest sense of the word," and Moore's foundation, set up in the wake of his remarkable fundraising achievements, said it was "heartbroken."

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