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MFC Celebrates Smokey Bear’s 80th Birthday

The Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) is proud to join the USDA Forest Service, the Ad Council, and other national partners in celebrating Smokey Bear’s 80th birthday on August 9th. Since 1944, Smokey Bear has been a steadfast advocate for wildfire prevention.

The Smokey Bear Wildfire Prevention campaign is the longest-running public service advertising campaign in U.S. history, educating generations of Americans about their role in preventing wildfires. Despite the campaign’s success over the years, wildfire prevention remains one of the most critical issues affecting our country.

“Smokey Bear is an important symbol that stands the test of time,” said Russell Bozeman, MFC state forester. Smokey’s message is as relevant today as it was in 1944.”

As the heart of the longest-running public service campaign in American history, Smokey Bear has achieved numerous accolades:

  • In 1952, Congress passed the Smokey Bear Act to preserve his legacy.
  • In 1964, the United States Postal Service gave Smokey Bear his own zip code due to the immense volume of mail he received, a unique honor shared only with the President.
  • In 1984, Smokey Bear was featured on a series of postage stamps by the United States Postal Service.
  • In 2012, a Smokey Bear plush toy accompanied astronaut Joe Acaba to the International Space Station, marking Smokey’s journey into outer space.

“Smokey Bear is a vital part of the country’s wildfire prevention initiative,” Bozeman said. “The MFC regularly incorporates Smokey Bear in our outreach programs to educate people about the dangers of careless fire use.”

Despite his pivotal role in reducing human-caused wildfires over the past 75 years, Smokey Bear still needs your help. Nearly nine out of ten wildfires nationwide are still caused by human activities.

“With Mississippi’s fall wildfire season approaching, it’s crucial to remember Smokey’s message: Only YOU can prevent wildfires,” Bozeman emphasized.

Friends, partners, and students helped MFC with a video Birthday Card message below for Smokey Bear’s big celebration.

For more information about Smokey Bear’s history, visit smokeybear.com.

To learn more about preparing for the fall wildfire season in Mississippi or to schedule a Smokey Bear appearance, follow @MSForestryComm on Facebook and Twitter.