This month Sykes Services, the United States Forrest Service, and hundreds of other organizations around the world will be celebrating the 63rd birthday of Smokey Bear.

Smokey Bear was created 63 years ago by the U.S. government funded Ad Council. The first posters of Smokey were circulated on August 9, 1944 during WWII. Due to the manpower demands of the war the number of firefighters available in the U.S. was extremely low. It was crucial that the government send out a powerful message to citizens on fire prevention, and Smokey Bear was that message.

For 63 years Smokey's message of "Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires" has been heard and respected around the country. Over the years Smokey Bear has been officially recognized by Congress, been given his own zip code, graced a U.S. postage stamp, hosted a radio show, been a movie star, and his likeness and message have been published on thousands of posters and television commercials which continue to be published today.

Smokey Bear has been asking for your help in preventing wildfires for the past 63 years and he still needs your help. Be careful with fire and teach your children the importance of fire safety.

Happy Birthday Smokey!