Navy Rear Admiral Donald K. Bullard retires

Rear Admiral Donald K. Bullard a native of Santa Paula and a 1969 Santa Paula High School graduate retired from the United States Navy in January. He received his bachelor of science degree from the University of Southern California and was commissioned through the NROTC Program in June 1973.Rear Adm. Bullard was designated a Naval Aviator in March 1975. Rear Adm. Bullard’s operational sea tours include flying the A-7E Corsair in Attack Squadron 113 (VA 113) in USS Ranger (CV 61), Attack Squadron 195 (VA 195) in USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), Carrier Air Wing 14 (CVW 14) in USS Coral Sea (CV 43), Attack Squadron 27 (VA 27) in USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and flying the F/A-18 Hornet in Strike Fighter Squadron 97 (VFA 97) in USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63).Rear Adm. Bullard’s shore assignments include duty with Attack Squadron 122 (VA 122), with Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet and on the Staff of the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Air Warfare).Rear Adm. Bullard received his masters degree with highest distinction from the Naval War College and is a graduate of the Armed Forces Staff College. He is also a graduate of the Syracuse University Maxwell School National Security Studies Program and has served on the Staff of the Center for Naval Warfare Studies.In January 1991, Rear Adm. Bullard assumed command of Strike Fighter Squadron 97 (VFA 97) embarked in Kitty Hawk. In July 1995, Rear Adm. Bullard reported as Commanding Officer of USS New Orleans (LPH 11). Rear Adm. Bullard became the 28th Commanding Officer of USS Constellation (CV 64) in January 1998. In October 1999, he reported as Chief of Staff for Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. In July 2000, Rear Adm. Bullard was assigned to the Joint Staff as Deputy Director for Operations in the National Military Command Center. In September 2002 he assumed command of Carrier Group Six/John F. Kennedy Battle Group.