Don Bullard

Don Bullard retired in 2020 at the age of 71, capping off a remarkable 36-year career in the insurance industry. His journey began with State Farm, where he quickly rose to prominence, and later led him to establish his successful agency, Don Bullard Insurance. Throughout his career, he earned several prestigious certifications, including CPCU (Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter) in 1978, CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) in 1980, CHfC (Chartered Financial Consultant) in 1993, and CASL (Chartered Advisor for Senior Living) in 2005.

Rise at State Farm

Don started his insurance career in 1972 as a State Farm agent. Through relentless dedication and long hours, he built his agency from the ground up. By 1995, he had become the highest-ranking State Farm agent in the United States and Canada. For over a decade, he consistently ranked among the top 10 agents within the company, securing the number-one spot multiple times due to his unwavering commitment to client service and business growth.

Venture into Independent Insurance

In 2008, Don made the bold decision to part ways with State Farm and establish his independent insurance agency at the age of 59. Starting from scratch, he embarked on building a new client base, securing essential carrier partnerships, and launching a strategic marketing plan that quickly positioned Don Bullard Insurance as a key player in Wilmington, North Carolina. Within just a year, Don's agency experienced rapid growth, eventually serving over 20,000 households. The agency offered a wide range of personal insurance products, including auto, homeowners, flood, marine, and life insurance. By 2016, the agency had grown to match the success he had previously achieved with State Farm, attracting the attention of Acrisure, a leading brokerage firm. He sold his agency to Acrisure that year and continued to work for another 3 ½ years before officially retiring.

Recognition and Professional Achievements

Throughout his extensive career, Don Bullard received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Presidents Club Trophy, which he won 12 times. he also qualified as a president's club member over 70 times, a testament to his consistent performance and excellence in the insurance industry. Beyond these awards, he was known for his willingness to share his expertise with other agents across the U.S. and Canada. He frequently traveled to various regions to assist other agents in improving their practices and achieving tremendous success in their careers.

Military Service and Honors

Don's commitment to service extended beyond his professional life into his time in the U.S. Army. After graduating from New Hanover High School in 1967, he joined the Army as a Warrant Officer Candidate and completed Army Flight School in 1968 as a helicopter pilot. He served three tours in Vietnam, where he flew missions with the A Company 123rd Aviation Battalion Americal Division and later with the 101st Airborne Division. Promoted to Captain at just 22 years old, he demonstrated extraordinary bravery, earning multiple military honors, including two Distinguished Flying Crosses, a Bronze Star, 36 Air Medals, an Army Commendation Medal, and a Purple Heart. His military career was tragically cut short when he was seriously injured during a mission in the A Shau Valley. This event ultimately led to his decision to leave the Army.

A-Pillar of the Wilmington Community

For more than 50 years, Don has been a dedicated and influential member of the Wilmington community. He has served as Past President of the Seartoma Club and Past Treasurer of the Port City Kiwanis, organizations that play a crucial role in supporting local charitable causes. He has also volunteered his time with numerous community organizations, including Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity, United Way, and the Cape Fear Literacy Council, where his contributions have made a lasting impact. In a significant act of service, he tutored a special needs student for 11 years, providing not only educational support but also transportation and tuition assistance, helping the student graduate high school with his class. His commitment to his community has earned him respect and admiration from those who know him.

Today, Don Bullard enjoys a well-deserved retirement, spending his days traveling, boating, and cruising. He reflects on a life filled with professional success, military courage, and deep community involvement, knowing that his contributions have left a lasting legacy in both the insurance industry and his beloved Wilmington community.