Springville, Tenn.–It was an emotional day for Kirk and Gretchen Catherwood and the hundreds who gathered at the Darkhorse Lodge for its grand opening Saturday.
The grand opening followed nine years of hard work by the Catherwoods and a small army of volunteers to create Darkhorse Lodge, a retreat for combat veterans of all branches of service. It’s a place for combat veterans to relax, fish on Kentucky Lake, enjoy area activities and communicate with other veterans. And it’s all at no cost to the guests.
The Catherwoods have dedicated their work to their son, Lance Cpl. Alex E. Catherwood, who was killed in action October 14, 2010 at the age of 19. And each bedroom is named after one of the 25 men lost from the Marine Corps 3/5, Darkhorse unit.
Saturday’s activities included the ribbon-cutting and words of welcome from the Catherwoods, live music, a pig roast, plenty of snacks, and tours of the grounds, which include cabins, a main building and dining hall.
Visit www.Darkhorselodge.org to learn more about the Lodge and ways you can help support it. Darkhorse Lodge is located on Swor Rd. in Springville.
Photo of ribbon-cutting by Michelle Bowman.