Eight National Guard soldiers return home to the Capital Region, making for the perfect Christmas gift for many families. YNN's Madeleine Rivera has more on this story.

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LATHAM, N.Y. -- "I know everybody was very happy when the plane landed on the ground," said Major Chris Guilmette.

Eight soldiers from the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team arrived at Latham Armory to some smiling faces Saturday night.

The soldiers were demobilized from Camp Shelby in Mississippi. They spent the past year in Kuwait performing logistics, administrative and security missions.

"Now that he's here and we can see him and touch him, it's real. It's great. It's great to have him back," said Lisa Racano, mother of Specialist Troy Chadwell.

Just in time for the holidays.

"That was a major thing. They did a good job getting us home one time," said Chadwell.

For most of the family, it's the simple luxuries that matter most.

“I'm going to eat fast food. Yes, yes I am," said Chadwell.

His little sister, Brandi Ruznock, said she's looking forward to having him watch her next gymnastics competition.