Weddings are known for stirring up emotions—but for 4-year-old Gage, his dad’s special day turned into a moment he’ll never forget.
During a heartfelt ceremony in Ripley, New York, U.S. Marine Sgt. Joshua Newville married Senior Airman Emily Leehan. Gage, Joshua’s young son, stood by calmly—until Leehan began reading vows she had written just for him.
“I want you to be safe, to try your hardest, and to be a good person,” she said. That’s when Gage broke down in tears and threw his arms around her, leaving not a dry eye in the room as guests let out a collective “awww.”
Leehan went on: “You are so extremely smart, handsome, and kind. I may not have given you the gift of life, but life gave me the gift of you.” Her words brought both her and Newville to tears, but it was Gage’s emotional response that touched everyone’s hearts.
Though the newlyweds headed back to duty at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst shortly after the ceremony, the moment left a lasting impression—a powerful testament to love, family, and the bonds that go beyond blood.
