STAFFORD — Celebrating Trojans, their fans and hometown spirit, the Stafford Oktoberfest committee announce Clinton Bullard as the 36th Annual Parade Marshal. When you think of a Trojan fan, this gentleman always comes to mind and was mentioned by many, for more reasons than being a fan. 

Clinton has always been a huge Trojan fan. Born and raised in Larned, he met his wife Darolyn Pettijohn, got married in October of 1991, and moved to Stafford. He has been a big fan of the town since moving there. Prior to coming to Stafford to settle down, Clinton attended Fort Hays State University and graduated with a degree in Business. He is currently the caretaker of the Stafford Cemetery, among many other activities. 

When Clinton was nominated as the Parade Marshal, many citizens came forward with stories of his kindness and willingness to always help anyone who is in need.

Phyllis Hager commented, “Clinton would do most anything for anyone.”

As Stafford celebrates Trojans and hometown spirit, Clinton is a shining example of just that. Stafford is proud to be a community of kind, caring people who are there for each other, and always willing to help.

Clinton was asked what got him involved and made him such a huge fan. He stated that he owes his involvement in the community and love for the Trojans to his boss, Jay Minnis. Jay encouraged Clinton to get out and get involved in the community and become a part of it.

 “Clinton is always eager to help his neighbors, friends or strangers; it does not matter who they are, he just wants to help,” Minnis said. “Through the years he has always been quick to volunteer to help those in need. He is always willing to help citizens in our community with picking up limbs, mowing some grass, or help moving furniture. Clinton has a strong back and is always eager to help in whatever way he can. Clinton is a big supporter of the Trojan Nation, always attending the home games, and away when he can. For years Clinton would set up the ‘Trojan Flags’ along Main Street celebrating the Trojan student athletes. Clinton is a good guy. You will not find a more trustworthy person.”

Clinton often traveled to games with Bruce Leavelle, a long-time statistician for many Trojan teams, and Frank Smiley, who of course attended games to take photos and write the articles for the Stafford Courier newspaper. They soon became renamed the Trojan Trio! When the girls high school volleyball team made it to State and took third place, Clinton was celebrating just as much as the team itself. Many of the girls still remember Clinton jumping from high up in the bleachers to the court in excitement. Clinton said it was in 2022 when the boys high school football team won and were crowned the District Champs that he felt his heart being pulled into being an even more involved Trojan fan. 

Clinton is well known as being the official Trojan flag “hanger.” As stated by Trista Taylor, “If you see a tall man climbing up on a trash container on Main Street it will be Clinton trying to get the Trojan flag up on the poles.”

Clinton is a dedicated fan, because he would be out in the snow putting up the flags on game days.

Clinton would like to use the platform of being the parade marshal to encourage people to donate to purchase new Trojan flags. Donations may be made to the Trojan Flag Fund at the Stafford City office. As the conversation with Clinton turned back to his kindness and helpful nature, Clinton said, “You know, friendship is something we all really need to think about in this lifetime. It’s important, and I have already lost so many.”

That statement speaks volumes about Clinton and how he feels about those in the community. Clinton is a friend to all in Stafford and pops into businesses just to say, “Have a good day.” He takes the principal at the school a cake to celebrate her birthday, he will honk as he passes just to smile and wave, if you need help Clinton will be there. To sum up Clinton in a phrase it would be, “No matter who you are, Clinton will leave you happier than he finds you. In a world that often seems a little grouchy and impatient everyone could learn a lesson from Clinton and be the good that spreads a little sunshine.”

Congratulations, Clinton, from the Oktoberfest Committee and a community who appreciates you!