On 21 August 1915 the West Australian stated that the sad news of “Lieutenant D. Jackson, who is reported as being killed in action at the Dardanelles, will be received with the deepest regret by all who knew him. ‘Dave’ had been connected with soccer for a number of years, but as junior and senior he only played for one club. After leaving school he played with the Ex-Students, which eventually took the name of Austral. As skipper, he was one of the mainstays of the Austral last year, and his untimely end will be a great loss not only to his late club but to the game in general.”
The following year, on 24 June 1916, the West Australian reported, “Many stories have been told as to how Lieutenant ‘Dave’ Jackson, of the 10th Light Horse, and of the Austral Club, met his death, but as they have been in the main mostly incorrect, it might be fitting to relate the story as told by Trooper Murray last Saturday, in answer to a query by the writer. It appears that subsequent to the now historic event through which Dave, contrary to other versions, came through unscathed. Murray was crawling back from the trenches, but owing to his severe wound was unable to pass some obstacles in his way. ‘Dave’ came to his aid, and assisted him into safety and then returned to his position. Some minutes later he heard the moans of another member of his company, who was lying wounded on the enemy side of the trenches, and though it was certain death to go to his help, Lieutenant Jackson never hesitated, or gave a thought to himself. He immediately climbed the parapet and went to the succour of his fallen comrade, but, alas, he never returned. Thus the career of one who, according to Trooper Murray, was one of the most popular officers of the Light Horse was brought to a close. Truly, greater love no man could have than this, and the pity is that his heroic action was of no avail. Whilst one may deplore his untimely end, all who knew ‘Dave’ must feel proud of him. He did what one would have expected of him under the circumstances, and all that remains is a cherished memory.”
David Jackson along with his school-teacher brother Samuel attended Perth Boys School. Samuel Jackson played for Training College. He also served in the war with distinction, winning the Military Cross, and returned safely.