Kevin Ogle | KFOR

OKLAHOMA CITY – They are probably the most recognizable rock band in the world for their unique look and stage performance.

The founding members of KISS were in Oklahoma City on Thursday for the grand opening of their new rock-themed restaurant while, at the same time, honoring America’s fighting men and women.

Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley said they chose Oklahoma City for ‘Rock & Brews’ because of what we have to offer.

“Heartland is where it’s at,” Simmons said. “They call it the heartland because, without it, you aren’t going anywhere.”

But, the grand opening was about a lot more than promoting their restaurant.

Simmons and Stanley are deeply committed to helping America’s veterans.

“So many people just don’t realize that freedom isn’t free,” Stanley said. “We’re born here, and we’re given something by the people who laid it all on the line. So, any time we open a ‘Rock & Brews,’ we want to pay tribute to the people who make it all possible.”

For Simmons, who was born in Israel, his passion for America comes from his mother who was forced into a concentration camp as a teenager during World War II.

“My mother survived. The rest of the family did not,” said 66-year-old Simmons. “If you don’t know your history, shame on you. If not for America, this world would be in chaos. Were I president, I would demand the very first order of business, before borders or walls or anything – an amendment to the constitution that, if you volunteer for the military, you’re at least guaranteed a job when you come home.”

KISS and ‘Rock & Brews’ presented a $20,000 check to the local ‘Honoring America’s Warriors’ during the restaurant’s grand opening.