We met nearly two years ago and never in a million years did I think we would be able to be together, but we did, and we were able to because of you. We had amazing and wonderful and beautiful adventures together all over the United States and Australia.You made me a better person and helped me make my dreams come true and the memories we created together I will never forget. I love you so much, you will always be a part of me.

David taught us something new each lesson about his favourite periods of history. His passion for, and knowledge of, the Vietnam War, American Civil War Generals, military planes and ammunition, was obvious in every lesson. We were transfixed by his rare coin collection, his personal library, his own fascination with such things. He was such good company, and such an intelligent, helpful classmate to have. We all envied and admired his knowledge and passion for understanding how and why the world is the way it is. How awful to lose a brilliant mind and kind-hearted peer. Sharing moments with you has been a real pleasure.

The usual words we use to describe outstanding students—intelligent, industrious or enthusiastic—fall short of truly reflecting on David’s intellectual potential. For David was not an ordinary High Distinction student. He was a promising young scholar, with a keen interest in military affairs and reading broadly. His written work and tutorial contributions suggested intellectual curiosity and maturity rarely seen among undergraduate students. His departure is a great loss to me personally, to my colleagues and, more broadly, to academia. He will be missed but also remembered as a bright young scholar who left us way too soon.

I am reflecting on David. David is a cool man.

I came home to find my name on David's arm in bold black ink. He informed me that he went and got my name tattooed on him. David had gone to the extent of wrapping his arm in plastic wrap and marking his arm red so that the Sharpie tattoo looked real.

A man of many words. Always interesting. He never stopped talking, entertaining us with his knowledge.

David was always at the cutting edge of cool stuff in the world. He gave us cool presents like that American silver dollar and Pete's gold plated collectors edition Pokémon card. He was always aware of interesting things in the world. Without really thinking about it myself, I think I have become more interested in the important things in the world because of David.

David introduced me to Lovecraftian Horror, showed me 80s Cyberpunk and demonstrated the power of insouciance in the face of suffering.

I related to David and always enjoyed his company.

I knew David as really kind and respectful. He was cool. Well, I liked him. He gave us those foreign coins and Pokémon cards and stuff when we were little.

I always remember finding really fun things to do, like riding mattresses down the stairs.

I remember a little boy who always loved adventure and mischief.

Laura and I decided to create a super cool Nudie Dance, as younguns, thinking  "You know who will appreciate this awesomeness? Our older brothers!" It’s safe to say, they were not impressed. I believe the screams of terror were heard even by our neighbours..

"David, keep your hands away from the wombat." Refrain while David traveled across the USA with a bandaged finger: "Honey, this little boy is from Australia and he was bitten by a wombat!"