Buchanan, Tenn.–Over $5,000 was raised for the Darkhorse Lodge at this weekend’s spaghetti supper benefit at Friendship Baptist Church in Buchanan. The benefit was held in memory of the late Chris McDonald, an Army veteran and church member who passed away in 2018.
Darkhorse Lodge will be holding its Grand Opening September 23 and is a retreat for combat veterans of all branches of service. They can relax, fish on Kentucky Lake, enjoy area activities and communicate with other veterans. All at no cost to guests.
Gretchen Catherwood of Darkhorse Lodge said, “Such kind and generous people, bidding on silent auction items, enjoying super yummy spaghetti and singing and playing fantastic music! More than $5,000 was raised for Darkhorse Lodge, in memory of Chris McDonald. Thank you to all who participated.”
Darkhorse Lodge is located at 1951 Swor Rd. and the Grand Opening will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The day will begin with the ribbon cutting at 11 a.m., followed by live music, a pig roast, beverages and snacks.
Tours of the facility will be held so the public can see what has been worked on for the past nine years.
It was the brainchild of Kirk and Gretchen Catherwood, who lost their son Lance Cpl. Alec Catherwood when he was killed in action October 14, 2010. Each room at the retreat will be named after one of the 25 men lost from the Marine Corps 3/5, Darkhorse unit.