Gov. Patrick hosts Guard families for lunch

Gov. Deval Patrick followed up his visit to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan with box lunches for their familes back at the Statehouse.

About 30 groups of relatives crammed into the governor's office suite Tuesday to hear directly from the commander-in-chief of the Massachusetts National Guard. Patrick returned Sunday from a trip to Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait with four other governors.

Patrick says he was surprised by how many soldiers were rejuvenated by a visit from someone from home. And the family members say they appreciate the governor making the trip on behalf of the state's citizens.

The wife of an Army major stationed in Iraq says he was pleased the governor came. Other families echoed the sentiment.

Patrick had faced some criticism for making the trip as lawmakers near the July 31 end of their session.