MEMPHIS, Tenn — After weeks of growing tension and demands for action, the National Guard is officially on the ground in Memphis. 

Approximately 145 to 150 soldiers have been sent to Bluff City to assist and stabilize the local police, as part of a strategic plan aimed at reducing crime and boosting public trust.

ABC24 spent the day in Harbor Town, one of the neighborhoods where Guard members began patrolling early Friday morning, Oct. 10.

Harbor Town locals quickly noticed the increased security presence. While some residents felt reassured by seeing Guard personnel on duty in their area, others were puzzled as to why they were placed in one of the more tranquil parts of Memphis.

According to State Representative Antonio Parkinson, around 150 Guard members will be dispatched to Memphis. They will operate in three shifts, each lasting eight hours, with a maximum of 50 soldiers active at any given time.

The additional security was welcomed by some. Chris Brock, a Harbor Town resident, expressed his approval, even after an encounter with the Memphis Safe Task Force.

“It’s beneficial,” Brock stated. “I was speeding and at fault, so I’m pleased they’re enforcing measures to ensure Memphis is a safer community for everyone.”

However, some criticized the deployment approach. Keith Fields, a resident of South Memphis, argued that the Guard’s presence should be focused on areas with higher crime rates.

“We’re down here by the river next to Harbor Town, ain’t no crime going on over here,” Fields said. “South Memphis, North Memphis, Orange Mound; that’s where they need to be.”

Oscar Wright, also from South Memphis, told ABC24 he hopes to see troops move closer to downtown, particularly on Beale Street, where weekend crowds often gather.

“People want to go have a good time Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with their families,” Wright said. “If they’re downtown, I think that will help a lot. People will feel way safer than normal.”

Despite differing opinions, many residents agree that the Guard’s presence signals a serious push to crack down on crime.

“If criminals feel like they have the right to commit crimes and they’re just going to get slapped on the wrist,” Brock said. “Maybe this will deter them from wanting to commit crimes in the future.” 

For now, the National Guard is not being asked to make arrests; that authority remains with Memphis police. 

According to Parkinson, the troops are expected to stay in the city for 60 to 90 days, working alongside officers to restore calm and strengthen community safety.