Back in Time Nov. 14: Mitchell's impactful insurance agent Cecil Duncan

Cecil W. Duncan began his career in education, working as a teacher and superintendent at area schools in 1926. But two years later, he made a significant career change. In early 1928, he entered the insurance business with Equitable Insurance. Later that year, he became an agent for New York Life Insurance. During World War II, Duncan put his insurance career on hold to serve in the military. His work in insurance soon brought national recognition. For 1944–45, New York Life recognized Duncan for retaining 93.6 percent of his business. In 1945, he also led the company's South Dakota agency in the number of paid insurance applications. Despite his demanding career, Duncan remained active in veterans' organizations. In 1947, he was appointed to the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks Commission. In 1948, he was appointed to the American Legion's National Life Advisory Board.

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