Don Bullard
Don Bullard retired in 2020 at the age of 71 after a successful 36-year career in the insurance industry, where he made his mark with State Farm and later as the founder of Don Bullard Insurance. Throughout his career, he earned a series of respected 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.
Building a Legacy with State Farm
Don began his insurance journey in 1972 as a State Farm agent. His dedication, characterized by long hours and a relentless work ethic, enabled him to grow his agency significantly within eight years. By 1995, he had become the top State Farm agent in the United States and Canada. Over more than a decade, he consistently ranked among the top 10 agents at State Farm, securing the number-one spot multiple times.
Founding Don Bullard Insurance in Wilmington, NC
In 2008, Don decided to leave State Farm and established his independent insurance agency at the age of 59. Starting from scratch, he built a new client base, secured carrier partnerships, and implemented a strategic marketing plan that quickly elevated his agency’s presence in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Within a year, Don Bullard Insurance experienced rapid growth, eventually serving over 20,000 households. His agency offered a comprehensive range of personal insurance products, including auto, homeowners, flood, and life insurance. By 2016, Don’s agency had grown to match the success he achieved with State Farm, catching the eye of Acrisure, a leading brokerage firm. After selling his agency to Acrisure, he continued to work for another 3 ½ years before retiring. The agency remains a vital part of the Wilmington community under the Acrisure brand.
Accolades and Professional Achievements
Don’s career was decorated with numerous awards, including the prestigious Presidents Club Trophy, which he won 12 times. He also qualified as a president’s club member over 70 times. Beyond these accolades, he shared his expertise with other agents across the U.S. and Canada, helping them enhance their practices.
A Veteran’s Service and Sacrifice
Don’s commitment to service extends to his time in the U.S. Army. After graduating from New Hanover High School in Wilmington 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, flying missions with the A Company 123rd Aviation Battalion Americal Division and later with the 101st Airborne Division.
During his service, Don was promoted to Captain at the age of 22. His bravery in the line of duty earned him numerous military honors, including two Distinguished Flying Crosses, a Bronze Star, 36 Air Medals, an Army Commendation Medal, and a Purple Heart. However, his military career was tragically cut short when he was seriously injured during a mission in the A Shau Valley.
A-Pillar of the Wilmington Community
Don Bullard has been a dedicated member of the Wilmington community for over 50 years. His contributions include serving as Past President of the Seartoma Club and Past Treasurer of the Port City Kiwanis. He has also volunteered his time with organizations such as Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity, United Way, and the Cape Fear Literacy Council.
In a particularly impactful act of service, Don tutored a special needs student for 11 years, providing both transportation and tuition support to help the student graduate high school. Today, he enjoys his retirement through travel, boating, and cruising, reflecting on a life filled with professional success, military courage, and community service.