Don Bullard retired from the insurance industry at age 71 in 2020, marking the end of a 36-year career that included tenures with State Farm and his agency, Don Bullard Insurance. Over his professional years, he achieved numerous certifications, becoming a Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) in 1978, a Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) in 1980, a Chartered Financial Consultant (CHfC) in 1993, and a Chartered Advisor for Senior Living (CASL) in 2005. Now retired, Don fills his days with travel, boating, and cruising, embracing the leisurely lifestyle he worked hard to earn. Don's career in insurance began in 1972 when he joined State Farm as an agent. His dedication was apparent as he worked long hours five days a week, rapidly building his agency. By 1980, He had expanded his team and his client base, establishing himself as a formidable force within the company. His success peaked in 1995 when he was recognized as the highest-ranking State Farm agent in the United States and Canada. He was among the top 10 agents for over a decade, achieving the number-one agent spot multiple times. In 2008, at 59, Don decided to chart a new path by founding Don Bullard Insurance in Wilmington, North Carolina. Starting from scratch, he painstakingly built a new client list, secured insurance carrier appointments, and launched a robust marketing strategy to establish his brand. His efforts paid off quickly, allowing him to grow his client base exponentially. By 2016, his new agency was as extensive as his State Farm venture, catering to over 20,000 households with a range of insurance products, from auto to life insurance. Don's entrepreneurial journey took another significant turn in 2016 when he sold his agency to Acrisure, a leading brokerage firm. He continued working there for another three and a half years before retiring. Under the Acrisure umbrella, Don Bullard Insurance continues to serve the Wilmington community, contributing to Acrisure's growth into one of the fastest-expanding brokerages in the industry. Throughout his insurance career, Don garnered every conceivable award for production and profitability. His accolades include receiving the prestigious Presidents Club Trophy twelve times and qualifying as a president's club member over seventy times. He also shared his wealth of knowledge by traveling across various regions in the U.S. and Canada to assist other agencies in developing their operations. Before his illustrious insurance career, Don was a helicopter pilot in the Army during the Vietnam War. After graduating from New Hanover High School in 1967, he joined the Army as a Warrant Officer Candidate and quickly advanced through the ranks. By 22, he was promoted to Captain, but his military career was cut short when he was seriously wounded. Despite his injuries, his bravery and service were recognized with numerous military honors, including two Distinguished Flying Crosses and a Purple Heart. Don's commitment extends beyond his professional endeavors into significant community involvement in Wilmington, where he has resided for over five decades. He has held leadership roles in local organizations such as the Sertoma Club and the Port City Kiwanis. His volunteer efforts include supporting the Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity and the Cape Fear Literacy Council. Perhaps most notably, he dedicated 11 years to tutoring and supporting a special needs child, ensuring the child's academic and personal success. Don Bullard's story is one of unwavering dedication to his profession, community, and country—a testament to a life well-lived, marked by significant achievements and meaningful contributions.