Berlin Names New Police Chief: A Decorated Veteran With Nearly 30 Years of Service
Berlin, MD - The Town of Berlin has a new top cop, and his résumé is anything but ordinary.
Colonel Howard "Howie" Drewer has been appointed as Berlin's next Chief of Police, effective Monday, April 20, 2026. He comes to the role with nearly three decades of combined law enforcement and military experience.
Chief Drewer most recently served as Assistant Chief of Police at the Salisbury Police Department, where he spent more than 27 years. During that time, he held leadership roles in both Operations and Administration. He also worked as a detective with the Wicomico Narcotics Task Force and served as a member of the department's Tactical, or SWAT, unit.
Community policing was also a significant part of his career in Salisbury. He was involved in efforts aimed at strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and the people they serve. That focus on trust-building appears to be something he plans to carry into his new role.
Before stepping into law enforcement, Drewer served in the United States Army. He later continued that service through the Army Reserve, retiring at the rank of Sergeant Major. His military career included deployments to Bosnia, Korea, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
His record of recognition is equally impressive. Chief Drewer is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and has received multiple honors throughout his career. Those include Chief's Awards, Meritorious Service Awards, Exceptional Service Awards, and the Distinguished Service Award.
Beyond the accolades, colleagues know him as a mentor and a steady presence. He has earned a reputation for dedication to the people he works alongside and those he serves.
Mayor Zack Tyndall made clear that this appointment was about more than credentials.
"On behalf of the Town of Berlin, I am proud to welcome Chief Drewer to our community," said Mayor Tyndall. "His record of leadership, integrity, and service speaks for itself. Chief Drewer brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to community-oriented policing that aligns perfectly with Berlin's values. I am confident he will continue to build upon the strong foundation of our police department while fostering trust, transparency, and excellence in public safety."
Chief Drewer also weighed in on what this new chapter means to him.
"Serving the Berlin community is both an honor and a responsibility I take seriously. I am committed to leading with integrity, building lasting relationships, and ensuring our department reflects the values and expectations of the Berlin community," he said.
In his new role, Chief Drewer will oversee the Berlin Police Department with a focus on public safety, community partnership, and organizational excellence. The Town has not yet announced a date for his swearing-in ceremony, but said details will be shared at a later time.
For a town known for its close-knit feel and community pride, the appointment signals a commitment to experienced, relationship-driven leadership. Berlin residents will get their first official look at their new chief soon.
