Alec Campbell
On May 16, 2002, Alec Campbell, the last surviving Anzac and participant of the Gallipoli campaign, passed away at the age of 103. He was given a state
| Alec Campbell | ||
 | ||
| Alec Campbell | ||
| Born | Born February 26, 1899 Launceston, Tasmania, Australia | |
| Died | Died May 16, 2002 (aged 103) Hobart, Tasmania, Australia | |
| age | 103 | |
| nationality | Australian | |
| Known for | Last surviving Anzac of the Gallipoli campaign | |
| branch | Australian Army | |
| years | 1915–1916 | |
| Rank | Private | |
| Occupation(s) | Water carrier | |
| funeral | St David’s Anglican Cathedral, Hobart | |
funeral at St David’s Anglican Cathedral in Hobart, Tasmania. Born in Launceston, Tasmania in 1899, Campbell enlisted in the Australian Army in 1915, shortly after the Gallipoli landing. He claimed to be 18 years and 4 months old at enlistment, though he was actually 16 years and 4 months.
He departed from Adelaide in 1915, heading to Alexandria, Egypt, and then to Gallipoli. However, he contracted influenza and did not see combat. He returned to Launceston in 1916, ending his military service before turning 18. Reflecting on his experience, Campbell once remarked, “It’s hard to believe—all those young men—gone.” His funeral was attended by high-ranking officials, including the governor-general, state governors, the prime minister, and defense force chiefs. Campbell served primarily as a water carrier rather than a combatant, and he was recognized as the last Anzac.[1]
References
- A-Z of Australian facts, myths and legends, By Bruce Elder, 2005, P.170.
