Weddings are always emotional, but one wedding in Ripley, New York had everyone reaching for tissues—especially a little boy named Gage. Four-year-old Gage learned just how overwhelming love can be as he watched his father, US Marine Corps sergeant Joshua Newville, marry Senior Airman Emily Leehan.
On that special day, Gage was doing his best to stay calm, even though the ceremony was full of emotions. He stood proudly beside his father as Joshua exchanged vows with Emily. For Gage, it was already a big moment. Little did he know that something unforgettable was about to happen that would make this day even more special for him.
The ceremony had everyone’s attention, but Gage’s world changed when Emily, his soon-to-be stepmom, began reading a set of vows that she had written just for him. As she started speaking, Gage’s composure slowly began to slip, and it wasn’t long before his emotions took over completely.
With the audience already feeling emotional, Emily started her vows to Gage. She said, “I want you to be safe, and to try your hardest and to be a good person.”
Hearing those heartfelt words, Gage couldn’t hold back his tears any longer. He broke down, and in the sweetest moment, he threw his arms around Emily, crying. The whole crowd let out a collective “awwww” as they watched the little boy’s touching reaction. It was clear that Gage was overwhelmed by the love and care being shown to him.
Emily tried to comfort him, whispering, “Don’t cry, baby.” But how could Gage not cry? At that moment, he was filled with so much love, and it was spilling out in the form of tears.
Emily continued her vows, with her voice soft but steady. “The last thing I hope you learn is that you are a special boy,” she said. “You are so extremely smart, handsome, and kind to others. You have helped shape me into the woman that I am today, and I may not have given you the gift of life, but life surely gave me the gift of you.”
Her words brought even more tears, not just from Gage but from Emily and Joshua as well. The love they shared as a family was so strong that no one could hold back their emotions. As they stood together, all three of them with tears in their eyes, it was clear that this wasn’t just a wedding—it was the official beginning of a new family.
Gage, with his little suit and wide, teary eyes, had stolen the show. His reaction was so genuine, so full of love, that everyone who witnessed it couldn’t help but feel moved.
The moment was captured on video, and soon it spread across the internet, touching the hearts of people around the world. Gage’s breakdown wasn’t just about tears—it was about the power of love and the bond that forms when two families come together.
As for the newlyweds, ABC7 reported that Joshua and Emily didn’t get to go on a honeymoon right away. Both of them were still on active-duty after the wedding, so they returned to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst to start their married life together. Even though they couldn’t head off on a honeymoon, their wedding was unforgettable.
The video of Gage’s reaction to Emily’s vows continues to warm hearts, reminding us all of how powerful love can be, especially when it involves children. The wedding day wasn’t just about Joshua and Emily—it was also about Gage and the new family they were building together.
Weddings like this one show that love isn’t just between two people; it can unite families and bring so much joy. Gage’s tears of joy made this wedding one that no one will forget. What a beautiful celebration of love, family, and the special bond they all share. We wish Joshua, Emily, and Gage all the happiness in the world as they start this new chapter in their lives.
What do you think of this heartwarming story? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
