National Guard Deploys to Memphis Amid Crime Surge and Historical Echoes

Sat Oct 11 2025 20:16:05 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

With the arrival of National Guard troops in Memphis to combat rising crime rates, local residents reflect on the memories of their presence during turbulent times in the 1960s, notably following Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination.

As National Guard troops arrive in Memphis to support local law enforcement amid ongoing crime concerns, residents recall the troubling history of military presence in the area. Activists like Joe Calhoun express their apprehensions, remembering confrontations with the Guard during the civil rights movement. Current efforts aim to provide community safety, with the governor noting this as a 'key moment' for the city, which has long dealt with violent crime.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — National Guard troops have arrived in Memphis at a time when the city grapples with escalating crime rates. Residents like Joe Calhoun vividly remember similar deployments from decades past, particularly during protests led by civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968.

Back then, the streets of Memphis were heavily patrolled by armed guardsmen, a response to violent clashes between police and protesters advocating for sanitation workers' rights. Calhoun recalls the unease felt during those times, stating, “You felt very uncomfortable just going about your daily routine, especially at night.”

Al Lewis, another local, shared memories of hearing gunfire that was almost reminiscent of celebratory New Year’s fireworks after the news broke of King’s assassination, which unfolded just a week after the initial outbreak of violence in the city. The military’s presence became a common sight as tensions escalated.

In a strategy focused on safety, officials, including Governor Bill Lee, have supported the deployment of the National Guard asserting they are here to assist local police in controlling crime. Specific roles include providing security and conducting community patrols. “They will play a critical support role,” Lee stated, while it remains uncertain how extensive the troop presence will be.

Today, Memphis continues to face challenges with violent crime, from carjacking to homicides. Although the city has recorded marginal improvements in crime statistics this year, the fear of violence lingers among residents already familiar with turmoil.

Reflecting on the past, Calhoun remains active in the community, marching against current deployments. “I’ve got four grandchildren, so much of what I do is to help make a better world for them.” His sentiments resonate within a city that has a rich history tied to civil rights and contentious interactions with the National Guard.

With safety as the forefront concern, some Memphis leaders are exploring more positive roles for the Guard this time around. According to Mayor Paul Young, the National Guard could assist in monitoring police cameras or helping beautify the neighborhoods while being aware of the community's historical anxieties regarding military presence.

Reflecting on the juxtaposition of past and present, and what the National Guard symbolizes, Calhoun fears repeating history—hoping for a future that spares the next generation from his experiences.