Geneseo Residents ‘Uncomfortable’ with Soldiers Training in Village

GENESEO — Village Trustee Ben Gajewski recently brought to the Geneseo Village Board’s attention that village residents have voiced concerns to him over soldiers from the 108th New York State National Guard Unit, based in Geneseo, conducting patrolling exercises through the village.

“There are some people seriously concerned that there are men walking around in front of their homes with weapons,” Gajewski told the GeneseeSun.com.

The 108th is a New York State National Guard Infantry Unit that has served in the Spanish-American War, the Mexican Border War, World War I, World War II, Iraq, and Afghanistan.  The unit is comprised of Companies from across New York State.

“It’s a residential neighborhood, ” said Gajewski, referring to soldiers that were seen on 2nd Street.  “I’m not sure if it’s appropriate to have armed men walking around. I understand the need to do the training, but I would prefer something more sensitive to the residents of the area.”

Gajewski stated that better communication between the unit and members of the community might be a solution.

“In this day and age, when you see people dressed in fatigues carrying guns there is really no telling who they are,” said Gajewski.

Gajweski stated he is awaiting a response from the A Company of the 108th New York State National Guard Unit, which was conducting the exercise.

PHOTO CREDIT: 2-108th Infantry Battalion Facebook Page