Smokey Bear made his first appearance on a wildfire prevention poster in 1944. Eighty years later, Smokey stands as one of the most recognizable fictional characters in the U.S. “He's an icon.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – The new Smokey Bear special shape balloon has made its debut. After more than 20 years in operation, it was time for the last hot air balloon to be replaced.