Handshakes, hugs and a few tears greeted the dozens of Covington-based National Guard troops who triumphantly returned home after a tour of duty in Afghanistan. Local leaders praised the efforts of the 131 soldiers of Bravo Company, around 40 of whom attended Sunday's homecoming celebration. "There are no words that I can say to you or your family members to tell you how much it means to me that you did the job that was requested of you," said Newton County Chairman Kathy Morgan, as tears came to her eyes and her voice trembled.