A baby boy has the distinction of being Antigua and Barbuda’s first Independence Day newborn this year.

The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre announced that the child was born at 5:35 a.m. to proud parents Glengield and Roleeka King-Henry. Weighing 6 pounds 12 ounces, the baby arrived just in time to share in the nation’s 44th anniversary of Independence.

Hospital staff said the arrival brought “joy to the entire team,” marking what they described as a special way to celebrate the twin-island nation’s milestone.

The hospital extended congratulations to the family and a warm welcome to “the little king.”