MEMPHIS, Tenn. - One day after photos of National Guard soldiers at Eastgate Shopping Center spread across social media, residents across Memphis are sharing new reactions to their presence in neighborhoods, business districts, and Downtown.

Bill Day, the general contractor who manages Eastgate Shopping Center, told FOX13 he has dealt with persistent crime at the property for years. He said seeing soldiers walking alongside Memphis police officers on Thursday was a welcome change.

“My reaction was hallelujah,” Day said. “I want my tenants and patrons to feel safe. If they don’t, they’ll leave.”

RELATED: National Guard seen patrolling with Memphis Police Officers

Day said crime at the center has ranged from car break-ins to purse snatchings to tools being stolen from work crews in broad

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