BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) declared July 2 as National Wildland Firefighter Day at a press conference Tuesday.

The agency chose July 2 because it aligns with Wildland Firefighter Week of Remembrance, which is from June 30 through July 6.

This day was created to recognize all wildland firefighters including federal, state, local, rural, contract, and support personnel.

"It's not the same fire environment, it's not the same fire season, we need to do better by our firefighters because the nation needs them," said Grant Beebe, Bureau of Land Management assistant director.

On Tuesday, several fire agencies fathered at NIFC to celebrate July 2 becoming National Wildland Firefighter Day.

"We pause to recognize our wildland firefighters and thank them before they head out once again to fight larger and more intense wildfires across the west," said Jerry Perez, Forest Service director of fire and aviation management.

The day was created by NIFC's fire management board to recognize the sacrifices firefighters make.

"Firefighters work long hours in remote areas away from the public eye. They are away from their loved ones for weeks at a time and there are some of those that will never return," said Debbie Miley, National Wildfire Suppression Association executive director.

The establishment of this day is timely and aligns with ongoing efforts to improve conditions for our nation's firefighters.

"Just last week The White House announced the implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, it's a pay supplement that is going to go to our wildland firefighters," Beebe said.

The pay increase would make sure all federal firefighters will make no less than $15 an hour.

"This pay boost for the federal wildland firefighters will make a positive difference in the lives of approximately 16,900 firefighters," Beebe said.

Some federal firefighters will also have the opportunity to transition from temporary to permanent positions.

"We are not only acknowledging the job that those folks do but actually giving them a career path that they can see a future in the industry, in the job that we love," Beebe said.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will also provide funding for additional training and mental health support.

For information on how you can celebrate National Wildland Firefighter Day click HERE.

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