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About
We are a non-profit organization with 501(c)(3) recognition. Darkhorse Lodge is a retreat for combat veterans from all branches of service to come to relax, fish on Kentucky Lake, enjoy area activities and communicate with others who have walked in their boots. All at no cost to our guests. We plan to open September, 2023.
Mission
Honoring our nation's heroes by providing a peaceful atmosphere for combat veterans to enjoy rest, relaxation and recreation.
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Overview
We are a non-profit organization with 501(c)(3) recognition. Darkhorse Lodge is a retreat for combat veterans of all branches to come to relax, fish on Kentucky Lake and communicate with others who have walked in their boots.
LCpl Alec E. Catherwood, 19
USMC 3/5, Kilo Co
KIA Afghanistan
5/6/91-10/14/10
What's To Come...
There are five, 5-bedroom guest cabins, each room named for one of the 25 men lost from the Marine Corps' 3/5, Darkhorse unit.
When our 19 year old son, LCpl Alec E Catherwood, was killed in action on October 14, 2010, it felt as if the world had ended for us. After realizing that we wouldn't honor him by giving up, I stayed up nights, wondering what I could do for those who did come home. Once I had the basics down, my husband added improvements to the plan. Finding my new purpose in life has given me a reason to get up each morning and face the challenges ahead. We have 5 guest cabins, a staff cabin, and a shower house/dining facility (named for US Army National Guard, Specialist Tim Bowman, who took his life on Thanksgiving Day, 2005 after returning home from Iraq). Our employees will be combat veterans as well, including those who will take the participants fishing at one of the most beautiful spots in the south. The buildings at Darkhorse Lodge are wheelchair accessible to accommodate as many of our veterans as possible.
Gretchen Catherwood
Our Board Members
Gretchen and Kirk Catherwood-Gold Star Parents of LCpl Alec E. Catherwood, USMC. KIA Afghanistan 10-14-10
Mike Bowman-Proud Father of Specialist Timothy N Bowman, Army Nat. Guard, 3/4/1982-11/24/2005, former Assistant State Captain, Illinois Patriot Guard Riders
Jerry Oleson-Formerly active duty Marine.
Mikaela Catherwood, RN, BSN-Sister of LCpl Alec E. Catherwood
Mark Titre-Founder of God Bless The Troops and Honor America's Valor