Farewell to a Friend and Leader – Wing Commander Max Hayward BEng(Hons) MSc RAF

Today, I had the sad privilege of bidding farewell to a good friend and exceptional leader, Wing Commander Max Hayward, Station Commander of RAF Honington, one of our closest and most cherished Royal Air Force bases.

Wing Commander Hayward is a Joint Staff Officer, Logistician, and highly respected commander. Since being commissioned into the RAF in October 2003, he has served with distinction. After completing his Supply Officer Training, he held staff appointments at the now-closed RAF Stanbridge and Headquarters Strike Command. His operational deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Abu Dhabi, and the Falkland Islands reflect a career dedicated to service and excellence.

Promoted to Squadron Leader in 2015 and then to Wing Commander in 2022, he took command of RAF Honington in 2023. His leadership has been both professional and personable, earning the admiration of colleagues and deep appreciation from the local community.

Today marked his final public appearance before being posted to Belgium. True to form, Commander Hayward delivered an unforgettable farewell. He welcomed us with a warm reception at the base, choosing the station’s vast and fascinating museum as the starting point for this special event. He then led us to the runway, where we witnessed a flawlessly coordinated ceremonial march and a moving sunset parade. As the marching band and Flight presented arms to the Commander and Padre, a short but emotional prayer was offered. At the perfect moment, flying from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, a Eurofighter Typhoon soared overhead in a flypast, gracefully tipping its wing to the crowd, a poignant tribute to a beloved leader.

Wing Commander Hayward leaves RAF Honington in capable hands, but this was not goodbye, merely a “see you soon.” He and his family have grown deeply attached to this region, and in his own words, he hopes to return here in retirement.

I wish Commander Hayward a safe mission, a fulfilling time in Belgium, and a speedy return. As he grew fond of this community, we too grew fond of him.

Thank you to all the personnel at RAF Honington for your service and hospitality, and a heartfelt thank you to Wing Commander Max Hayward.