Death of Scots rugby cap and war hero Howard Campbell

FORMER Scotland rugby internationalist and Second World War hero Howard Campbell has died at the age of 90.

The prop served with the Royal Engineers during the 1939-45 war and was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry during that campaign. He then went on to win four caps for Scotland in 1947 and 1948.

The recommendation for his MC read: “Throughout the campaign since D-day, the work of Lieutenant Campbell has been outstanding and an example of conscientious doggedness. His organisation and supervision of mine clearance of forward routes and assembly areas immediately on landing undoubtedly saved many casualties.

“His role in all subsequent operations has always been carried out with the utmost vigour and determination coupled with reasoned technical skill. He has never spared himself, accepting all operations of any magnitude and routine work, with cheerfulness and displaying throughout an utter disregard for personal danger. During assault operations in November whilst in support of the 104 US Infantry Division he carried out several successful personal reconnaissances under considerable heavy enemy small arms fire and shelling during the forming of the bridgehead on the R Mark at Standaarbutten.

“Immediately on completion of reconnaissance and whilst the position was still under intermittent shellfire a bridge was successfully constructed at this crossing under Lieutenant Campbell’s direction and control, thus enabling vital supplies to reach the bridgehead forces.

“His courage, always of a high order, and capabilities of leadership are an example and a constant source of inspiration and encouragement to the troops under his command.”

Howard H Campbell was born on 10 November 1921 in Machakos, Nairobi, Kenya, where his father was employed by the public works department as a civil engineer.

He played as a prop forward in the services rugby internationals against England at Murrayfield and Leicester in 1944 , gaining full international honours in the games against Ireland and England in both 1947 and 1948.

He won a blue for Cambridge University in the 1946 Varsity match, also played his club rugby for London Scottish and went on to represent the Barbarians.

Following his war service he worked as a civil engineer with Shell, being posted overseas to countries including Sri-Lanka, India and South Africa.

In his retirement Mr Campbell, who lived near Reading, was a keen photographer and enjoyed playing golf at Henley Golf Club.

He died last Thursday and is survived by his wife, Barbara, one son, Keith, and two daughters, Frances and Katharine.

The Scottish Rugby Union has extended its sincere condolences to Mr Campbell’s family and friends.

His funeral will take place at Kidmore End Church, Oxfordshire on Thursday 15 March at 1pm.