TYLER (KYTX) - Eight fallen soldiers remembered for their heroic service to our country.
But it's the method used that had people in Tyler fighting in their name -- that wasn't what you'd expect to see.
Jeff Morris explains the meaning behind Legion 8, sharing the story of each of the men who died serving with him in Baghdad 5 years ago during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
"He was the kid growing up that dressed in red, white and blue," says Lynda Kagan, Sgt. Ryan Green's mother.
Sgt. Green is one of the 8 who died.
Kagan drove from Conroe to watch nearly 50 people take on a workout in their honor at Premier CrossFit Saturday.
"It's really important for us to do everything we can to support the troops, whether here with us in the present, or just here in our hearts," says Kagan.
Men and women and other members from the unit loaded the bars and started the grueling workout.
"So many people here and Sgt. Green's mom here and the guys from the unit, just so emotional, I broke down on several occasions and it was well worth it," says Morris.
Morris was the men's commanding officer and helped put the event together.
"I think back to good times I had with those guys and terrible day they were killed. I think I drew upon that," says Morris about getting through the nearly hour long struggle.
He says the idea behind it is to fight through each move, help others do the same, and to always remember these men.
"It's part of the healing process, and good to remember guys of Legion 8 and put a smile on your face, and not with tears in your eye," says Kagan.
With a community standing strong behind them.
Donations today were given to Patriot 29 Troop Support.
