AN ex-Riverlander, who is now Australia’s highest-ranked member of the military, was honoured by his former high school recently.
Renmark High School earlier this month renamed its D Block building after former student and Australian chief of army Lieutenant General Rick Burr.
Mr Burr hoped the renamed building – and his former achievements at the school – would inspire current Renmark High students.
“It’s incredibly humbling,” Mr Burr said.
“I’m really honoured by what has happened today, and I hope this can serve as an inspiration for the generations that follow.
“If they work hard, study hard and be good people, they can do anything.”
Mr Burr entered the military in 1982 and was promoted to chief of army in July 2018.
Mr Burr said high school experiences formed the foundation for his future military success.
“These are our foundational years at high school, and growing up in a town like this, they were wonderful years,” he said.
“It really helped me become who I am in terms of values, character and knowing what’s important.
“That’s carried me through a life of leadership in the army, which I’ve really enjoyed.”
Renmark High had also renamed the school’s gym after the Mickan family in December 2019.
Mr Burr – who attended Renmark High during its transition from Ral Ral Avenue to the current site on Thurk Street – said the school’s core values still remained.
“I had three years out at the old school and two here,” he said.
“What doesn’t change? It’s an environment of learning, with amazing teachers who try and do their best to let students grow and prepare them for the future.
“That doesn’t change, and that should never change.
“It’s a wonderful environment and I wish all the best for Renmark High School in the future.”