When soldiers with the Ohio National Guard's 216th Engineer Battalion served their tour of duty in Iraq, two reminders of home were with them.

Now, that the soldiers are safely home, the reminders are being returned.

The Lawrence County Commission gave the local soldiers an Ohio State Bicentennial Flag and a Lawrence County flag.

Thursday, two representatives of the battalion returned the flags to the commissioners. Some of the soldiers had even signed the flags.

"These were a little piece of Lawrence County in Iraq," said Rock Brown, who retired from the National Guard earlier this year and had served in Iraq until mid-summer when health problems forced him home. "We thank you for your support."

"The appreciation is from us to you," countered Commissioner George Patterson. "We appreciate what you've done."

"This is an honor for us," Commissioner Doug Malone agreed.

The flags will be framed and displayed at the courthouse.

The soldiers returned home from Iraq last month.

The Lawrence County Commission has also agreed to honor the legendary Waterloo Wonders basketball team with a display of

memorabilia in their chambers.

This is the 70th anniversary of the team's championship win and the commission has agreed to invite the public to display any related treasures they may have.

"I got a call from a lady who attended Waterloo schools and she was excited about this (decision to honor them), Commissioner Jason Stephens said.

Any items donated for the display will be returned, those who want more information may call the commissioners' office at 533-4300.

A bronze marker on the courthouse lawn will also be erected in the future.