A web cam allowed a Nebraska soldier, stationed in the Middle East, to witness his son's birth Thursday night.

Zachary Mitchell watched as his wife Ashley gave birth to a boy at 6:30pm at Nebraska Medical Center. The baby was due six days earlier. Mrs. Mitchell underwent a 37-hour labor.

The new father's commanders came up with the idea of allowing the couple to share the birth of their child through Internet web cameras.

Mr. Zachary was also given time off so he can be with his wife and witness the birth.

"We can both web cam. We call each other so we can call on the computer and actually talk to each other," Ashley said.

The Auburn, Nebraska couple does a lot of Internet messaging as well.

"I'm glad they let us do this because I'm not there and this will allow me to be able to see my son brought into this world,” Zachary wrote. “It's not the same as being there in person but it helps make it a little better."

Web cams and the Internet allow couples separated by vast distances to get a little closer when it matters the most.

The couple have named their son Joshua. He weighs 8 lbs 10 oz.
Zachary Mitchell will be able to see his new son soon. He is scheduled for a 15 day leave during Christmas.