There’s nothing quite like a wedding to bring tears of joy to everyone’s eyes.
That lesson was especially heartfelt for four-year-old Gage, who found it hard to keep his emotions in check as his father, US Marine Corps Sergeant Joshua Newville, married Senior Airman Emily Leehan in Ripley, New York a few years ago.
Little Gage was doing his best to stay composed. However, his efforts crumbled when his dad’s new bride began reading vows she had penned just for him. Cue the flood of tears.
Gage stood proudly by his father’s side as Joshua exchanged vows with Emily. The little boy had no idea that Emily had a special surprise for him.
With an already emotional audience watching, Leehan began reading vows written exclusively for Gage. It didn’t take long for the boy to be overwhelmed with emotion.
Leehan started her heartfelt vows: “I want you to be safe, and to try your hardest and to be a good person,” she said, as reported by the Daily Mail. This tender moment prompted Gage to throw his arms around her, completely overcome by his feelings.
This act of love was met with a collective ‘awwww’ from the guests. Leehan comforted him with, “Don’t cry baby,” though it was clear that Gage could be cut some slack for this emotional outpour.
Leehan continued, “The last thing I hope you learn is that you are a special boy. You are so extremely smart, handsome, and kind to others. You have helped shape me into the woman that I am today. I may not have given you the gift of life, but life surely gave me the gift of you.”
Unsurprisingly, tears flowed freely from both Leehan and Newville before they could finish their vows. As for Gage, he managed to steal the show with his emotional response, striking suit, and doe-eyed stare as Leehan began her heartfelt message.
According to ABC7, newlyweds Leehan and Newville were required to return to active duty immediately following their ceremony. Thus, they couldn’t depart for their honeymoon right away. Instead, they returned to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst to start their married life together.
Regardless, their wedding was indeed a memorable one. Take a look at the video of Gage listening to Leehan’s vows below – you might want to grab some tissues!
What a beautiful ceremony and a timely reminder of the power of love. We wish Joshua and Emily all the best in their life together.
