Santa Claus, escorted by members of the Pleasant Valley Fire District, the New York State Police, and the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office, delivered an unforgettable gift on Friday night to four siblings, all seven years old and younger. The surprise had been nearly a year in the making.

Army Reservist and Construction Engineer Alexa Peterson deployed to the Middle East on January 3, 2025, leaving her children—Jaxson, Colton, Declan, and Haidyn—in the care of their family. For almost a year, the children communicated with their mother through FaceTime calls and stayed connected thanks to the ongoing support of loved ones.

Upon learning of Peterson’s return home, the Pleasant Valley Fire District partnered with her brother, New York State Trooper Mike Peterson, to organize a reunion the family would never forget. Santa and the fire department team arrived at the Peterson home, with Santa delivering a special message from Alexa Peterson herself.

Soon after, Santa’s helpers, dressed as firefighters, stepped aside to reveal the true surprise: Alexa Peterson returning home to greet her children. Their emotional reunion was met with cheers and applause from friends, family, neighbors, and the entire fire department as the four children ran into their mother’s arms.

This event served as a powerful reminder of both the spirit of the holiday season and the sacrifices made by military families.

Welcome home Alexa!