Just a heads up: this story is being republished after originally making the news in July 2017.

When a touching video of bride Emily Leehan reading vows to her groom’s 4-year-old son, Gage, touched viewers globally, it highlighted a special moment of family connection and sentiment. Senior Airman Leehan and Sgt. Joshua Newville’s story is resonating with people all over.
Leehan and Newville crossed paths at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in Trenton, New Jersey, and after three years of being together, Newville popped the question on July 18, 2016. Prior to their engagement, Leehan had developed a strong bond with young Gage, prompting her to consider how to involve him in their wedding ceremony.

Leehan aimed to create a heartfelt and significant wedding for their new family. She chose to recite vows to Gage, and when she mentioned her idea to Newville, he found it to be a lovely surprise they could work on together. The plan was put into action, with both anticipating a special response from the 4-year-old.
July 22 marked an unforgettable moment for the couple as they stood at the altar in Ripley, New York, with Gage standing between them. Leehan’s heartfelt message to Gage brought tears to his eyes in the viral video. She conveyed her wish for him to stay out of harm’s way and be a kind individual, sentiments that deeply touched the young boy, bringing tears to his eyes. The unexpected surge of emotions caught me off guard.

Recalling the moment, Newville shared, “I was trying not to lose it more than I already had—I think I was tearing up before the vows even started, just because of the sentiment that day—then when I saw Gage tear up, I was trying not to tear up with him.”
Even though Gage had an unusual emotional response, the couple mentioned that he usually doesn’t display such strong feelings. However, he does show empathy when he hears about negative events. Gage is a big fan of superheroes and Star Wars, with Spider-Man, Batman, and Paw Patrol being his top picks.

Key to the success of this heartwarming wedding was the support of Gage’s biological mother, Kali Nuckols. The couple has recently returned to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and is contemplating a honeymoon once they have enough savings. Life’s most valuable and unexpected moments are often free, as this special day showed.

The Leehan-Newville wedding beautifully highlighted the strength of love and family connections, bringing happiness to numerous viewers. This tale is a poignant reminder of how love and unity can lead to unforgettable and heartwarming experiences that will be treasured eternally.