Smokey Bear is 60 years old

This year marks the sixtieth anniversary of a campaign to prevent forest and wildland fires. Smokey Bear’s motto of “Remember, only YOU can prevent forest fires” is one of the most recognizable phrases in American culture. Since its origins in World War II, the campaign took on new life when a ‘real’ Smokey Bear was discovered during a New Mexico wildland fire.

You can find out more about Smokey Bear including his history and archives featuring radio and television PSAs.