William Charles Campbell joined the Royal Flying Corps in 1916. He was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant (on probation) on 10 August 1916 and received Royal Aero Club Aviator's Certificate 3806 on a Maurice Farman biplane at military school, Ruislip on 1 November 1916. Posted to 1 Squadron in May 1917, he scored twenty-three victories flying Nieuport scouts, all in just three months. Campbell was the first Royal Flying Corps pilot to shoot down five enemy observation balloons. Wounded in action on 31 July 1917, he returned to England and became an instructor.
Great Britain, Royal Aero Club Aviators' Certificates, 1910-1950
Military Cross (MC)
2nd Lt. William Charles Campbell, M.C., R.F.C., Spec. Res.
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He attacked an enemy balloon, bringing it down in flames, and returned to our lines at about twenty feet from the ground under heavy fire. On another occasion he attacked and dispersed a column of infantry from a very low altitude. He has shown great courage and initiative throughout.
Supplement to the London Gazette, 16 August 1917 (30234/8361)
Military Cross (MC) Bar
2nd Lt. William Charles Campbell, M.C., R.F.C., Spec. Res.
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has repeatedly shown great fearlessness and skill in attacking and destroying enemy aircraft, on one occasion destroying three within one hour. He has also attacked and dispersed enemy troops from a low altitude, at all times showing the utmost disregard of personal safety.
(M.C. gazetted in this Gazette.)
Supplement to the London Gazette, 16 August 1917 (30234/8354)
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
2nd Lt. (T./Capt.) William Charles Campbell, M.C., R.F.C., Spec. Res.
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on numerous occasions whilst on offensive patrols. He has displayed the greatest courage and skill in attacking enemy aircraft at close range, destroying some and driving others down out of control. He has proved himself to be a scout leader of the highest class, and has destroyed twelve hostile machines and two balloons, besides taking part in many other combats during the last three months. By his fearlessness and offensive spirit he has. set a splendid example to all ranks.
DSO citation, 9956 Supplement to the London Gazette, 17 September 1917 (30287/9556)
