Albert Sampson Campbell, “Bert”, was born in Sydney, Nova Scotia and completed his education in Chatham, New Brunswick in 1966 and joined the RCAF that same year.  He graduated as an Electronic System Officer in 1967 at the Air Navigation School (ANS) in Winnipeg where his father presented him with his wings.  After completing the Maritime OTU he converted onto the Argus aircraft and served with 405 Squadron.

On Squadron, he quickly gained Lead Radio Officer status and also developed a sonobuoy placement method and a number of improved Arctic Communications techniques.  An extra duty saw him develop the Base First Aid Training Program that continues to this day.  In 1974, he served briefly at the Base Test Flight before returning to the ANS for Navigation Training.  Next was a tour with 415 Squadron at Summerside, PEI where he achieved TACCO status in 1976.  Again, his innovative ideas improved ASW techniques.

In 1978, he served at the USN facility in Argentia, Newfoundland and played an active part in community affairs including helping found the Newfoundland Parent Teachers Association (PTA).  He received commendations from both the Naval Facility Commander and the Maritime Commander.

He returned to 405 Squadron in Greenwood where his innovative talents again introduced a tactical simulation training program and Search and Rescue procedures.  He also published the National Acoustic Newsletter used by the air force and navy.  Again, he was active with the local PTA.  Bert then served with the Maritime Air Standards Team as the Command Acoustics Sensor Officer.  Next it was a change of scene to a position in Canadian Forces Europe with the Command Comptroller where again his innovative ideas produced some improved personnel management procedures.  Again, he was commended for his work.

He returned to 415 Squadron for operational duties and activities with the 50th Anniversary Reunion.  Next, exchange with the USN at Keflavik where his work earned him a commendation from the Secretary of the US Navy.  He returned to 405 Squadron as a crew commander and Deputy Commanding Officer.  He became the President of VPI, organized the 30th Anniversary Reunion and placement of the VPI Memorial.  In 1996, he was posted to Wing Operations as Ops Centre Director.  He became the Editor of Maritime Patrol Magazine.  In 2003, Bert retired from the CAF, joined the Reserves and took up a position as the General Manager of the Greenwood Military Aviation Museum where he contributed greatly to the continuing success of that organization.  He retired fully in 2010.  Major Bert Campbell – a Maritime airman who contributed significantly to the effectiveness of Maritime air operations and latterly to the preservation of that heritage.