As I reflect on my own time here, sadly drawing to a close in October 25; I am immensely proud of what we achieve from our airbase in rural Shropshire. What our trainees rarely see, and what I probably did not appreciate as an ATC instructor a decade ago, is just how critical a small group of dedicated individuals and teams are to the station’s success and the enablement of the training role. From Station Headquarters, who keep us legally and administratively sound (with Sharon, Marie and their team quietly holding the purse strings), to the Trainee Management Cell (Warrant Officer Bale and team), who deliver a gold standard of support to our trainees. Diane and the stores staff refreshingly unafraid to issue kit and equipment, to Gail and the Community Support team, working tirelessly for the whole force and our families.  To Florence, who ensures our building is clean and tidy every day. The Station Warrant Officer’s Gang who keep the station looking its best, and the ever-cheerful Military Provost Guard Service who provide a warm welcome whatever the hour. My thanks go to them all (and to the many others too numerous to name) who keep their part of RAF Shawbury happy, effective, and professional. Wing Commander Mark Paxman RAF – Officer Commanding the Defence College of Air and Space Operations

Having taken over as RAF Honington’s Station Commander in July, I am delighted to be writing my first foreword for the Honington Herald.   This unique Station has a rich history, delivers so many vital outputs for Defence and has a great community – it is a real privilege to be your Station Commander and we are all so lucky to live and work in this beautiful corner of rural Suffolk.  I must start by paying tribute to Wg Cdr Max Hayward who, as the previous Station Commander, delivered a number of high-profile improvements to the Station, not least the upgraded gym and sports facilities, range building and main entrance point improvements. Whilst he has left big shoes to fill, I know that the excellent Station team will continue to support the vital outputs of our resident units and to keep our whole force functioning and safe!

September marks the beginning of a busy and exciting period in our Station calendar. I hope everyone has had the chance to rest and recharge over the summer, ready to meet the months ahead with energy and purpose. From commemorations to celebrations, there is much to look forward to — and yes, dare we mention the “C” word, the festive season is already on the horizon! This issue of the magazine captures some of the highlights from recent months, including the Annual Formal Reception, Armed Forces Day, and the poignant VJ Day service. We also had an incredible time at Wit Goes West — a fantastic event that brought us all together in true Wittering style. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did!