Chief Campbell calls it a career

Chief Campbell calls it a career

Longtime head of Earle Fire Department retires

ralphhardin@gmail.com For the first time in more than half a century, someone besides Irby Campbell with be wearing the “chief” hat at the Earle Fire Department.

Friends, families and well-wishers gathered over the weekend to honor Campbell, who has announced his retirement from the EFD after 62 years of service, including more than 50 as chief of the department.

Last July, at the annual Arkansas State Fire Convention in Hot Springs, Campbell was inducted into the Arkansas Firefighters Hall of Fame. Chief Campbell was honored at the State Convention then for his service of more than 60 years to the Earle Fire Department, including 55 as the city’s Fire Chief.

At the gathering Saturday night at Earle First Baptist Church, Marion Fire Chief and County Judge Woody Wheeless addressed the crowd there to honor Campbell and congratulate him on his retirement.

“Chief Campbell was on the department for 62 years and Chief for over 50 of those years,” said Wheeless. “In my book, Chief Campbell is an icon and a legend when it comes to the fire service. What a wonderful legacy he has left.

During those 62 years he touched many lives in the fire service including mine. I'm grateful that our paths crossed 27 years ago as I began my career at Marion Fire Department. I wish Chief Campbell the best as retirement officially begins.”

By Ralph Hardin