Mets honor veterans in #GiveThem20 campaign

NEW YORK -- Jon Stewart finished his 20 push-ups, popped to his feet and -- while catching his breath -- challenged the Mets to do the same.

As part of the American Corporate Partners' #GiveThem20 campaign, people across the country have been filming themselves doing 20 push-ups, sit-ups or jumping jacks in honor of military veterans. Participants then issue a challenge for their friends to do the same.

The Mets assisted in the campaign's birth, along with Stewart and Johnson & Johnson CEO Alex Gorsky.

So in his New York studio Tuesday, the late-night host finished his 20 push-ups and asked the Mets to take part.

Saturday afternoon, the club made good on the challenge. A dozen players gathered along the first base line for 20 jumping jacks in unison, then extended the challenge to TV host Jimmy Kimmel and the Washington Nationals.

"Any recognition that we can bring to the troops, the sacrifice they make for our freedom, we should all be able to jump on board for that," left fielder Michael Cuddyer said. "They jump on board for a lot more than giving 20 push-ups or 20 jumping jacks. We're happy to be able to do something to bring them recognition."

American Corporate Partners is a nonprofit organization that works to link post-9/11 veterans with business professionals for career assistance.