David Szudarski, USMA '01

Posted by John & Brenda Kessler on May 20, 1998:

As the parents of Cadet Eric E. Kessler, the present roommate of David Szudarski, we wish to share with the other West Point cadets and parents of the cadets our thoughts of David Szudarski. We had the good fortune to meet him and spend time with him and his parents during the Plebe Parent Weekend. One of the many pleasures of the Plebe Parent Weekend was the opportunity to finally meet your cadet's roommates. We had the chance to meet all 4 of Eric's roommates, all of whom were outstanding young men. We spent the most time with his present roommate, Dave. Dave had a very dynamic and charismatic presence. He was full of energy with a sparkle in his eye. His warm and friendly smile was contagious. Along with the hectic pace of the weekend we shared a lunch and dinner with Dave and his parents. At lunch Dave and Eric laughed together as they recalled events they had shared as friends and roommates. At the banquet dinner in the mess hall Saturday evening, Dave sat at the head of our table of 10 and brought the 10 of us together. We are thankful to have had the opportunity to know Dave and are saddened by the tragic loss the West Point community has suffered. He leaves a proud legacy of service behind him. Because of his prior military experience and human understanding, he provided an enrichment for all who met him. We have been in constant contact with Dave's parents and family. Our hearts and prayers are with the entire Szudarski Family. Our son, Eric, is honored to be a pallbearer at his roommate's funeral. Memories of Dave will be with him always. John & Brenda Kessler Cadet Eric E. Kessler Co. C-4, 2001

admin