RAF Honington near Bury St Edmunds appoints new Station Commander

A new Station Commander has been appointed at RAF Honington, with the previous incumbent leaving the role after two years.

Wing Commander Max Hayward is taking over from Group Captain Piers 'Dutch' Holland MBE at the station near Bury St Edmunds.

A handover ceremony was held today to officially mark the occasion.

“I am very much looking forward to meeting and working with station and resident Unit personnel from across Defence, the Civil Service and of course the many station contractors here at RAF Honington," said Wing Commander Hayward.

"Ultimately my intent is to continue the excellent work that Dutch has carried out during his time in Command of the Station improving the lived experience of Honington for everyone.”

Originally from Dover in Kent, Hayward was commissioned into the RAF in October 2003.

In 2022, he was selected for promotion when he moved to RAF Northwood to serve in a capability support portfolio coherence post within United Kingdom Strategic Command.

Max has two young children with his wife, Hesther, and his interests include cycling, playing squash and DIY.

Group Captain Holland, who took on the role in 2021, said: “A privilege of a life-time ends today.

"Thirty years ago, as a young Pilot Officer starting out on my career as an RAF Regiment Officer, had I known that I’d end up as the Group Captain Station Commander of the home of the RAF Regiment and wider Force Protection, I’d have been both amazed and delighted.

"It’s been an unsurpassable honour to serve, lead and represent RAF Honington, including through its 85th year. My unbounded thanks to all who live and work at RAF Honington, for their selfless service and to the families and our local communities for the incredible support they provide."