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

Roughly 145 to 150 troops have been deployed to Bluff City to stabilize and support local law enforcement as part of a coordinated effort to curb crime and restore public confidence.

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

Residents in Harbor Town were quick to notice the heightened security. Some expressed comfort seeing Guard members on the streets, while others questioned why they were stationed in one of Memphis’ quieter neighborhoods.

State Rep. Antonio Parkinson confirmed that about 150 Guard members will be deployed to Memphis, working in three eight-hour shifts with no more than 50 on duty at a time.

For some, the added presence is welcome. Harbor Town resident Chris Brock said he supports the move, even after being pulled over by the Memphis Safe Task Force.

“It’s a good thing,” Brock said. “I was speeding. I was guilty, so I’m glad they’re here doing these things to make Memphis a safer place for the community.”

Others, however, questioned the deployment’s strategy. South Memphis resident Keith Fields said the Guard’s resources should be concentrated where crime is most prevalent.

“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.