He is most noted for his service as an aviation officer who commanded the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing in the Pacific theater and on the staff of Lord Mountbatten during World War II.

He attended Waterbury High School and subsequently Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont, where he graduated in May 1917 with degree in civil engineering.

During his studies at Norwich University, Campbell joined Vermont National Guard in 1916 and was stationed at Fort Ethan Allen, before he was sent to participate as Cavalryman in Pancho Villa Expedition.

Campbell was promoted to the rank of first lieutenant on December 17, 1917, and later participated in all major engagements of Marine Corps in World War I.

On 6 December 1941, only one day before the Japanese Attack on Pearl Harbor, Campbell was appointed commanding officer of the Marine Aircraft Group 11 stationed at Brown Field within Quantico Base.

Campbell was assigned to this staff as Marine Corps Aviation Officer and his main responsibility was to advise in the matter of Air Cover for Commando operations.