Ohio Guard unit returns from Iraq

NEW PHILADELPHIA -- Some 175 soldiers from the Ohio National Guard's 1485th Transportation Co., located in Coshocton, Dover and Steubenville, will be welcomed home Wednesday after a year in Iraq. The ceremony will be at 3 p.m. at New Towne Mall, 400 Mill Ave., S.E., New Philadelphia.
The 1485th was mobilized in February 2003 and arrived in Iraq in April 2003. The unit also served in operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990 and 1991.
State Rep. John Boccieri of New Middletown, D-61st, was to return to the Statehouse today after a hiatus because of military duty in Iraq. Boccieri, a C-130 Air Force Reserve pilot, was away from the state Legislature since December, when he was called to active duty. Boccieri was to be at the Statehouse today and Wednesday for voting sessions and committee assignments.
Boccieri said he is optimistic that during the brief legislative session, the House will consider moving as an amendment a bill he sponsored to offer Ohio veterans license plates for motorcycles. Boccieri expects to report for duty in the Middle East by the end of this month, and be there at least through June 30.