For the first time in a decade, all 6,500 of the West Virginia National Guard are home at the same time.

"I'm glad to see that they finally got to come home, and we do appreciate what they do for us, and everything that they do for us," says Darlene Cantrell.

Coming from Afghanistan and Africa, the last two units returned to the states over the weekend.

Judy Griffith says, "I think it's great. My husband was in the air force so I know what it's like to have someone gone, so I'm so glad they're back."

They'll soon officially be back in the mountain state before heading overseas again in just a few months.

Former guard member, Bill Shedd, knows even a short time home is better than nothing. "I think they've done a tremendous job. I appreciate the guard. I appreciate all they've done for us. As a former member of the guard I really express my gratitude for each and every one of them and the sacrifices they made."

A homecoming for a large group of heroes.

One unit will deploy this March to Afghanistan. Officials say they should be gone for about 4 months.