NEWTON, Mass. -- Anxiety turned to cheers early Friday as a local National Guard unit returned home from war.

Families, kids included, waited late into the night for their chance at hugs and kisses for loved ones who spent a year in Iraq.

The servicemen from West Newton's 101st Finance Detachment marched back to spouses, parents, siblings, children and babies, greeted with open arms, smiles, balloons and hugs.

The 20 soldiers said it felt great to be home, back with family. Cpl. Andrew Bell's entire family greeted him in custom green T-shirts emblazoned with his name and the American flag.

"It's really great to have him home and we're thrilled that he's here," his father said. "He's kind of embarrassed about the shirts, but that's what families do."