On the evening of
24th March 2002 we celebrated the service given by Vincent Hayward, a
man who is highly regarded within the Corps. This was evidenced by the
attendance of a number of people who had travelled many miles to be present.
They, with the congregation who worship each week, wanted to be identified with
the evening and say “thank you” to a local officer who has served God, the
Corps, and The Salvation Army faithfully in discharging his duties.
Vincent and Catherine transferred to the Citadel in September 1966 and by December his qualities had already been recognised by Bram Williams, the Bandmaster, who asked him to take over the role of Band Secretary. This was only nine months before the first overseas tour by the band.
Bram wrote of Vincent . . .
“I always perceived Vince as not so much one of the ‘big wheel power’ individuals but more a ‘synchromesh’ as in he was engaging gears and moving forward whilst others were merely considering starting up the engine.”
In 1975 when the band undertook its second overseas tour Ian Dixon was the Band Secretary and Vincent handed over to him the file from the previous tour. Ian said in his tribute “This file became my ‘bible’. There were certainly some ‘state’ secrets in there but it had all the hallmarks of a meticulous and sound Band Secretary.”
Many officers and local officers have sent messages to Vincent which have been placed in a book for him to read at his leisure.
In all the letters that have been sent, they all talk of his integrity, his loyalty, his wise counsel, his reliability to many fellow local officers and corps officers. His Christian values have always shone out in all he has done. His courtesy, competence and comradeship have been very much appreciated.
Many messages also contain some very personal comments; an indication of the esteem in which he is held.
Speaking of their time working together on a weekly basis looking after the
financial affairs of the Corps, Ian said, “One of the things that I have come to
respect is the quiet unassuming way in which Vince has carried out his duties.
In meetings after everyone had had their say, it was very often those quiet
constructive words, spoken with wisdom and sound reasoning, which enabled us to
come to a decision.”
Vincent, Birmingham Citadel has so much to thank you for and we respect all you have done. You have been faithful and discharged your duties faithfully and you have done it as a Christian gentleman and as an avenue of service.
In our thanks we would also like to thank Catherine for the way she has supported you in all you have done over the years.
Vincent was presented with his long service award by Major Victor Kennedy.
‘Thank you’ seems so insignificant, but on behalf of the Corps we say it with sincerity. Shown below is a picture of the cake provided by the Corps which, again, says 'Thank You'.
