When a video of bride Emily Leehan reciting vows to her groom’s 4-year-old son, Gage, went viral, it touched hearts worldwide. Leehan and Sgt. Joshua Newville’s love story began at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in Trenton, New Jersey. After three years of dating, Newville proposed on July 18, 2016. During their courtship, Leehan grew close to Gage, and she wanted their wedding to be a meaningful family experience.

The couple’s plan was to surprise Gage with heartfelt vows. On July 22, they stood at the altar in Ripley, New York, with Gage between them. In a viral video, Leehan’s words brought tears to Gage’s eyes as she expressed her desire for his safety and goodness.

Newville recalled, “I was trying not to lose it more than I already had. When I saw Gage tear up, I was trying not to tear up with him.” Gage usually doesn’t show such intense emotions, but he’s compassionate and concerned about “sad things.”

With the support of Gage’s biological mother, Kali Nuckols, this heartwarming wedding showcased the power of love and family bonds. The Leehan-Newville love story reminds us of the unexpected moments that love and togetherness create