Oklahoma Together: Edmond Gym Raises Money For Veterans On Independence Day

As calories were burned at True Grit Fitness in Edmond, funds were raised for a great cause.

With every swing, jump, and push, proceeds went to the Oklahoma Warriors Honor Flight. The organization is a non-profit that sends World War II, Korean and Vietnam War veterans on a free trip to Washington D.C. to visit memorials honoring their service.

"As a veteran myself, I really saw how it not only helps the veteran communicate the guys he served with, but also, just kind of, that little bit of closure maybe they needed that they didn't receive," Oklahoma Warriors Honor Flight Board Member Kyle Hyden said.

"To send them over there on a trip of their lifetime really. They get to see their monuments, see what their sacrifice lead to in our freedom,” True Grit Fitness co-owner Jordan McGuire said.

They had hoped to have a World War II and Korean War veteran speak to the group at the gym. Due to COVID-19, the gym came to the veteran.

A procession of cars drove by the home of 98-year old Lieutenant Colonel Oren Lee Peters of Edmond, to honor the war hero.

Peters’ 511 days in combat during World War II made him the longest continuous officer in combat still living from the war.

"Cars going by, honking and waving. With the mask on, it's hard to do, but I have tears in my eyes. I love my country," Peters said.

Peters was previously an honor flight recipient.

True Grit Fitness said it raised approximately $2,000 on Saturday.