AFRL names Colonel Coale as vice commander Published Dec. 19, 2006 By Karen Y. Jackson AFRL Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Col. G. Scott Coale officially assumed his duties as the vice commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory July 10. He replaced Col. David Walker who retired June 23 after a distinguished 26-year career in the Air Force. Colonel Coale will play a key role in directing a staff of 9,500 and the Air Force's $1.9 billion science and technology budget. Prior to assuming this position, he served as the commander of the Reconnaissance Systems Wing in the Aeronautical Systems Center, where he oversaw the development of the Predator and the RQ-4 Global Hawk. During his career, Colonel Coale has had staff assignments on the Joint Staff and for the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition and the Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs. He received several awards and decorations for his achievements including, the Joint Commendation Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters. Colonel Coale was commissioned in 1981. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School in 1985 and has accumulated flight time in 16 different military aircrafts.