Col. Beale is a decorated combat veteran with more than 30 years of military service.  Before his appointment as the Adjutant General, he served as the Deputy Chief of Staff (Logistics) for the Joint Force Headquarters, New Jersey National Guard, managing the organization’s logistical support mission.

“New Jersey veterans have been asked to do a lot but too many feel they have been forgotten, lack jobs, struggle with mental health issues, and many are homeless. If we are to achieve a stronger and fairer New Jersey, it must begin by standing by those who have stood by us,” said Governor-elect Murphy. “Col. Beale brings decades of military experience and leadership to our administration, and will be a steadfast advocate for the needs of our veterans.”

“Our military service members and veterans have made many sacrifices to safeguard our state and nation,” said Col. Beale. “I am committed to the Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard and will ensure our veterans —of all military branches— and their families receive the care and attention they earned and deserve.

Beale, 48, previously served as Director of Plans, Operation, Training and Safety for Joint Force Headquarters of the New Jersey National Guard at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and was the key advisor on matters related to training, operations, mobilization, force structure and readiness of more than 6,100 personnel. From 2012 until 2014, Beale was the Executive Officer of the 42nd Regional Support Group based in Somerset, NJ, responsible for mobilizing National Guard forces in support of domestic emergencies and overseas deployments. He was also the Commander of the New Jersey Army National Guard Recruiting Battalion from 2010 through 2012.

Beale serves in the New Jersey National Guard and has served in the Army Reserves and Active Army. He has served in support of domestic missions and overseas operations in Afghanistan, Italy, Germany, and Albania. In 2008, Col. Beale commanded the Border Police Mentor Team in Afghanistan, where he advised and mentored the commanding general of the Afghan 4th Border Police, ARSIC West, Herat.

Beale began his military service in 1987 as an enlisted Soldier assigned to the 50th Main Support Battalion in Sea Girt. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with seven oak leaf clusters, Army Commendation Medal with seven oak leaf clusters, Combat Action Badge, Air Assault Badge, Humanitarian Service Medal, and Basic Recruiting Badge.

Beale received his Master’s of Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College, and earned his master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Kean University, Union, NJ.

A second generation Soldier, Col. Beale is the son of retired Chief Warrant Officer Two Howard W. Beale of Long Branch.

Beale resides in Ocean Township, Monmouth County, and is a member of VFW Post 1333 in Asbury Park. He and his wife, Shawanda, have three children.