Fayetteville reacts to Obama's Afghanistan withdrawal plans

Ronald Williams, who served in the Army, applauded the plan, adding that he knows how tough it can be on families of those deployed.

Plus, the city feels a bit empty while soldiers are away, Williams said.

Fayetteville resident Luke Barefoot said the economy has been down in the area with so many soldiers deployed. He hopes that soldiers returning to nearby Fort Bragg will help provide a boost to the area.

Gunnery Sgt. Ted Geller, a recruiter for the Marine Corps in Raleigh, said the war is the first thing recruits ask about.

“It helps with recruiting that our commander in chief is saying that he is withdrawing,” Geller said.

But like, those already serving in Afghanistan, Geller said, “The most important thing, you are going to have the ability to serve your country.”