NEW father Paul Birkbeck returned home from Afghanistan to see his miracle baby son.

He was one of 120 returning soldiers who came back to Dalton Barracks on Thursday night after a six-month tour.

The 3 Logistic Support Regiment flew in to RAF Brize Norton. Sergeant Paul Birkbeck was able to return home for the birth of his son Harry.

Six weeks on, having returned again from Afghanistan, he said he could not wait to spend some time with his new son – conceived thanks to IVF treatment.

His wife Debbie, a staff sergeant, said: “Initially, we didn’t know if he was going to be able to come home for the birth. It was very stressful.

“We knew about three weeks before and it was such a massive relief. Harry was in breach and I had to have a C section, so it was phenomenal that he could be there.

“He is an IVF baby and it was a huge battle.

“I will be eternally grateful for them allowing him to get home.”

Her husband said: “I was allowed leave so I could be at home for the birth of my son.

“I really want to be able to spend quality time with him and my family. I missed a few months of the pregnancy but I got to see him at the start of his life. My older son is at the age now where he knows I am going away, which is very hard. I am so glad to be back.”

  • Listen to the Price family and Debbie Birkbeck

They were not the only family to be overjoyed at being reunited. Private Daniel Webb, who had been away for three months, was greeted by his wife Gemma, three-year-old son Theo and little Arrietty, nine months.

He said: “I am glad to be back and I am looking forward to going on leave. She has changed a lot since I last saw her, but I get to see them both on Facebook.”

Sandie Thomas, 48, travelled from north Wales to see her daughter Rachel, 21, return from her first tour. She said: “It’s so good to see them all back safe and sound.”

Peter Beesley was staying in a caravan near the barracks to greet his 20-year-old son Deniel. He said: “We came up from Wisbech and stayed in the caravan.

“We’ll take him back with us when he goes on leave. It’s brilliant to have him back.” The regiment will go on leave tomorrow.

  • Listen to 11EOD's Lt Col McRae at the homecoming parade