It was a feat of military precision the Army itself could not have timed better.

As Staff Sergeant Ron Sumner retired from the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers on the day of his 40th birthday, his son Darren celebrated his 18th - and started full Army service in the same job.

Sixteen years on, the Sumners, from Willow Way, Hurstpierpoint, are celebrating their son's return from the Gulf - and for proud parents Ron and Gill it was not a minute too soon.

Corporal Sumner, 34, who is part of the Armoured Division Signal Regiment, touched down at his base in Herford, Germany, at 3am yesterday and hopes to return to his home village as soon as he can.

He called his parents at 3.15am to let them know he was back safe and sound.

Gill Sumner, 54, said: "We didn't mind the early call at all. We were thrilled to hear his voice and know he'd arrived.

"We're so proud of him and so pleased to have him back. He's been through so many things."

As a mechanic, Cpl Sumner was based about 15 miles from Basra and was in charge of communications vehicles.

He has now been reunited with his wife, Susan, and daughters, Katie, 13, and Sophie, 11.

He said: "It's fantastic to be back. I had to wake the kids up at 5.30am to tell them I'd arrived but they didn't mind.

"It was hot and dusty in the desert.

"We had showers from water in plastic bags that we'd hang in the sun to warm up.

"We had a regular routine. I was in charge of the fitter section.

"I think I did a good job as our gear was always working, even though most of it was from the first Gulf war, and the Americans were always having trouble.

"We had satellite dishes, so we saw a lot of the war on Sky TV."

As a child, Cpl Sumner grew up in Malaysia, Hong Kong and Germany because of his father's Army postings.

He said: "It was a great childhood and that's one reason why I joined.

"I'm doing the same job he did. Between us, we've done 41 years of consecutive service, which must be pretty unusual."