THE parents of the Fijian British Army soldier who gave birth after going into labour fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan last week says she is proud of her daughter.
An emotional Apikali Suka said she admired her daughter's courage, fighting in a war-torn country despite her predicament.
"It must have been tough for her. I really admire her courage and perseverance," Mrs Suka said.
Maurice Wallace, the soldier's father, said they were excited by the news because baby Izador Immanuel was their first grandchild.
He was, however, upset with the story earlier published in the media that he was unhappy with his daughter.
"She is my only daughter and the baby is named after her two brothers," Mr Wallace explained.
"I am disappointed that an overseas article attributed to me has been publicised here without the facts verified.
"I will never say such comments to my daughter. I am proud of my daughter and I commend her for her bravery, I am even looking forward to meeting her and my first grandson.
"Being a father, I am just so happy that my daughter is safe."
Lynette Pearce, 28, became the first British soldier to give birth on the frontline, although up to 200 service women have been sent home from Iraq and Afghanistan since 2003 after discovering they were pregnant.
After complaining of severe stomach pains, Lynette was rushed into a surgical theatre at Camp Bastion — the biggest British base in Helmand province — where the baby was delivered.
The birth came just four days after the Taliban's deadly attack on Camp Bastion that was intended to kill Prince Harry. The brazen assault left five British airmen wounded and two US Marines dead.
Mrs Suka said she was overjoyed to hear from her daughter yesterday.
"I have heard many negative comments through the media about my daughter but listening to her sweet voice made me cry knowing they are both recovering well in England," she said.
Mrs Suka said Lynette was the eldest in the family. She said her daughter presented her a precious birthday gift.
"I will be celebrating my 49th birthday on Friday and the news from my daughter is a gift I long dreamed of. It is a blessing."
"My daughter is my hero and I am proud she has given birth to my first grandchild. I just cannot wait to see her and my grandson."
Mrs Suka said her daughter had a beautiful personality and was a workaholic.
The British Army soldier was educated at Nadi Airport School, then Nadi Muslim before joining the national women's soccer team.
She said her daughter was also an "excellent sportswoman" and rose to become the captain of the national soccer team from 2007 to 2009 before leaving Fiji last year to fulfil an ambition to serve with the army. She also has a brother in the British Army.