1915 – At the age of 16, Campbell left his job as an insurance clerk and lied about his age to enlist in the 15th Battalion of the Australian Imperial Force.

         – He landed at ANZAC Cove in early November and assisted in carrying ammunition, stores and water to the trenches. Illness forced his evacuation in December.

1916 – Campbell was formally discharged.

1939-1949 – He was president of the Tasmanian branch of the Australian Rail Union.

         – He was president of the Launceston Trades and Labor Council.

         – He worked on the construction of Old Parliament House in Canberra.