the Death of Harry Rossoll, the Creator of Smokey Bear
                                           Release No. 0077.99 

Statement

                               by
             Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman
   on the Death of Harry Rossoll, the Creator of Smokey Bear
                                
                       February 28, 1999
                                
                                
"I was saddened to learn of the passing of Harry Rossoll.  Mr. Rossoll was the
     father of Smokey Bear, a beloved national treasure.  
                                
"Mr. Rossoll's creation proved that public service announcements can have a
significant and lasting impact on our nation.  Smokey Bear, created decades
ago, has saved human and animal lives.  America's forests and wilderness are
better protected from fires today, in part, because of Smokey Bear's
                successful education efforts.  
                                
"We are certainly a better nation because of Harry Rossoll's creativity.  His
   work will always be appreciated, but he will be missed." 
                                
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