The National Guard is set to pack up and leave New Orleans.
It marks the end of a two-month mission with a heightened federal law enforcement presence across the city, centered in the French Quarter.
“I’m actually glad to see them gone; it made me anxious seeing all these big guns walking around on the streets,” said Barbra Castleberry.
“I absolutely support, it’s the best use of tax dollars you can find,” said Kathleen Williams.
There are mixed reactions to a nearly two-month operation in the French Quarter coming to an end.
“You know what we had last year with the terrorist attack and all, so it was good that they were here, they kept us feeling a little safer than usual,” said Yancy Theodore.
According to the National Guard, the deployment of 350 soldiers was to target crime with an increased law enforcement presence and manned checkpoints.
It was a mission President Donald Trump touted during Tuesday’s State of the Union Address.
“New Orleans, Louisiana, was a big success,” Trump said.
But not everyone shared that same sentiment.
“It was very uncomfortable, guns, alcohol, French Quarter, it just doesn’t mix,” said Gregory Theis.
Some believe the enhanced safety measures prompted fear.
“I think the most intimidating was just these big guns on their shoulders walking around when people are just having a great time,” said Castleberry.
During Mardi Gras operations, soldiers supported 24-hour security efforts, working 12-hour shifts in the French Quarter. Some tourists say they felt protected, even at night.
“Anybody in law enforcement, firemen, anybody who stands up for you is taking their life in their own hands to keep us safe, we should be more grateful,” said Williams.
The Louisiana National Guard said that during their mission, they assisted with 85 arrests in New Orleans. They did not specify how many of those arrests were in the French Quarter.
READ MORE:National Guard set to leave New Orleans, ending two-month operation
