FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- The 6th Military Police Detachment welcomed home two of its own during a redeployment ceremony Aug. 9.

Cpl. Simeon Dunker and his partner, Maxi, a 4-year-old German Shepherd, returned from a year-long deployment in Iraq.

This was Dunker's second deployment to the region and he said "it's good to be home."

"I called everybody in my Family before I got on the plane," he said. "They're all just thankful that I'm finally home."

Dunker and Maxi were the only narcotics detection team in the southern Iraq region prior to his return to the U.S. He and Maxi helped train other teams during their deployment and it helped Dunker figure out what he'd like to do next.

"Training dogs is what I'd like to do," Dunker said. "I really enjoyed working with Maxi. He was my first dog and we've been together for two years. I'd like to be able to keep training."

While Dunker is hoping to train more dogs, he said having a break from training for a little while will be a welcome change.

"Maxi and I lived together for a year. We shared a room," Dunker said. "I love that dog, but I'm glad to have some space. I think he is, too."

Dunker said his plan now is to rest and relax after he goes to visit his 3-year-old son in North Carolina.

Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Timmins, 6th MP kennel master, said being able to welcome both Dunker and Maxi home was a good feeling.

"It's always great when you get to see both handler and dog come home," Timmins said. "We're all just glad they're finally home."

Capt. David Lemay, company commander, thanked Dunker for his service and said it was "great to finally see him home."

"We're all very proud of the work you've done," Lemay said to Dunker. "Everyone here is glad to see you've made it home safely."