Commander
Col Christopher Hayden 

Bio

Col Hayden has written a memo, dated 09 Oct 2009, recognizing the efforts of several Region members during the narrowband transition. To view the memo click here. 15 Oct 2009

Changing of the Guard in the Northeast Region

By Capt. James A. Ridley, Sr., PAO

McGUIRE AFB, LAKEHURST, NJ - August 9, 2009. In a triple ceremony, outgoing NER Commander Col Robert Diduch presided over the changing of commands for the New Jersey and Maine Wings and the Northeast Region. On this day Diduch turned over his command of the region to Col Christopher Hayden of Maine.

Col Hayden, the outgoing Maine Wing Commander, accepted command of the region and turned his wing over to his replacement, Col Daniel Leclair. Col Hayden's career with the Civil Air Patrol began in December 1997 when he joined the 58th Composite Squadron (ME058) in Portland, Maine. Col Hayden has held positions such as PAO, Squadron Commander, Wing Vice Commander and Wing Commander and counts among his CAP accomplishments his work reporting the progress of the JFK Jr. search and rescue operation and his initiative of the U.S. Navy ship escort duty along the Kennebec River. During this project he worked with the U.S.N. security officers to devise the most efficient use of CAP aircraft in support of the Force Protection Team as well as establishing a strong relationship with the Maine National Guard.

Col Hayden, a licensed pilot, has close to 2,000 flying hours, an instrument rating and commercial pilot certificate. Hayden has earned the Maine Wing Guy P Gannett Award and the Northeast Region Lt Joseph Mixter PAO Awards, two Commander's Commendations, the Maine Wing Squadron Commander of the Year Award and the Meritorious Service Award in recognition of his work on the U.S. Navy ship escort project.

Col Hayden accepting the NER guidon during the change of command ceremony

Col Hayden accepts congratulations from the outgoing NER Commander, Col Robert Diduch