Boccieri receives Buckeye State veterans advocacy award

John Boccieri in uniform: from campaign Web siteState Sen. John Boccieri (D-New Middletown), the Democratic candidate for Ohio's 16 Congressional District seat, has been selected to receive the 2008 Vietnam Veterans of America, Buckeye State Council's "Veteran Advocacy Award of the Year."

Boccieri is a Major in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, having served four tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. Boccieri has spent 14 years in the Air Force and is a pilot who flies C-130 cargo planes.

The award is presented annually by the Vietnam Veterans of America, Buckeye State Council to the individual who best advocates for issues affecting active duty, retirees, injured, and fallen soldiers in Ohio, according to a press release.

Boccieri said in a statement that it was an honor to be chosen.

I am humbled the Vietnam Veterans of America selected me when there are so many deserving candidates," he said.  "I am proud of my record in the Statehouse and have always made veteran issues a top priority.  But the real heroes are the brave men and women who have put their lives on the line for our blessed nation, and didn't make it home."

Boccieri entered the statehouse in 2000 and has worked on numerous issues related to veterans. Recently, Boccieri passed legislation like the Military Injured Relief Fund which sends grants to injured soldiers. He has also helped to protect jobs for veterans in the workplace, as some were losing them while serving abroad.

While presenting the award, Buckeye State Council President Thomas R. Burke said Boccieri had listened to veterans issues and worked to do something about it.

"All veterans in Ohio are better off this year than they were last because of you," Burke said. "The entire membership of Buckeye State Council congratulates you."

Accepting the award, Senator Boccieri said, "I will continue to work across the aisle to ensure that soldiers receive the resources they need the moment their boots hit the ground. I'll also continue to fight for the benefits in medical aid and the education benefits they earn when they return home."

Boccieri is vying against fellow state Sen. Kirk Schuring (R-Canton) for the seat being vacated by retiring U.S. Rep. Ralph Regula (R-Navarre), who's held the seat since 1973.

Boccieri delivered the Memorial Day Democratic response to President Bush's radio address. During the speech, Boccieri focused on several military issues, including calling on the president to rethink opposition to a new G.I. bill that would give soldiers full collegiate scholarships after three years of service.

The Bill was passed by the House of Representatives June 20 following a compromise. Bush praised the House passage saying that the bill makes it easier for troops to transfer unused education benefits to their spouses and children. The inclusion of the provision had been a sticking point with Bush.