About Us

The Hyner Lodge Foundation (HLF), was created in 2017. hlf honors those who risked their lives fighting for our country, families that have lost loved ones in armed conflicts, and those who take care of wounded veterans.  

The HLF was founded by Donald Koch in memory of his son Michael E. Koch, Navy Seal, killed in Iraq  on February 4, 2008 during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

SOC Koch

SOC HARDY

“We remember two Navy SEALS — Nathan Hardy of Durham, New Hampshire, and Michael Koch of State College, Pennsylvania. Nate and Mike were partners in the field and they were close friends in the Barracks. Through several missions together, they had developed the unique bond of brotherhood that comes from trusting another with your life. They even shared a battlefield tradition: They would often head into battle with American flags clutched to their chests underneath their uniform. Nate and Mike performed this ritual for the last time on February the 4th — they both laid down their lives in Iraq after being ambushed by terrorists. These two friends spent their last few moments on earth together, doing what they loved most — defending the United States of America. Today, Nathan Hardy and Mike Koch lay at rest next to each other right here on the grounds of Arlington.” President George W. Bush – Arlington, Virginia May 26, 2008

MISSION

To honor wounded, injured and disabled veterans, along with their families & caregivers, Gold-Star* and Blue-Star** families, and those who serve our nation, by providing a place to stay where they can heal, relax, enjoy, and renew their lives, body, mind and spirit.  To sponsor and host events that support participants in their healing and rehabilitation process. To provide opportunities for participants to engage in activities that promote their health and welfare

*Gold-Star families are families that lost a loved one in an armed conflict or in war.
**Blue-Star families are families that have a loved one in an active armed conflict or in war.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Donald Koch

President and Founder
President and founder of the HLF, is a retired veteran and a member of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal community for 40+ years.

Leticia Koch

Treasurer 
Treasurer and co-founder of the HLF.  She has a BA in Administration and has more than 20+ years experience with nonprofit organizations.

Delores A. Brown

Secretary
Secretary and co-founder of the HLF.  She is a retired teacher with a Special Education background, has 25+ years of YMCA volunteer service, and has contributed to the local and regional communities in numerous ways.

Matthew Koch

 Marketing

Navy Veteran, with 13 years experience in Private Security Contracting in the Middle East and Africa, Firearms Instructor, and  Executive Protection.

Hailey Barnard

 Social media Director

Gold Star Family Member, with close ties to fallen warriors.