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thedrifter
04-19-07, 08:48 AM
JT tavern off-limits to troops
Wednesday, April 18, 2007 3:31 PM PDT
Twentynine Palms Desert Trail

JOSHUA TREE — The Joshua Tree Saloon, which has been placed off-limits to members of the armed services, can appeal that decision, said Gunny Sgt. Chris-topher Cox, public affairs chief for the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center.

According to Cox, steps which led to the saloon being declared off-limits began in October of 2006 when certified letters began to be sent to owners of the tavern in downtown Joshua Tree.

Cox said concern was raised about incidents at the bar in which some Marines were beaten up.

He said placing a business on the off-limits list is not something military officials like to do.

“It limits places where Marines can go in their off-duty hours,” he said.

In a press release, Joshua Tree Saloon General Manager Camille Ladanne expressed her feelings about the ban, which she said took effect on Thursday, March 29.

“There have been some problems with the interaction between service members and the local patrons,” she wrote in the press release.

“Although after the events of 9/11 and the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East the relationship has improved between the service members and the local patrons. Our patrons that are members of the armed services will be greatly missed.”

Cox acknowledged that saloon owners have taken steps to make the saloon safer, including the hiring of more bouncers.

“Absolutely,” he said when asked if they can be taken off the off-limits list. “They can appeal their placement on the off-limits list.”

He added that following a series of meetings involving the bar owners and military officials, the Combat Center has not heard from the bar owners.

Military officials, he noted, would like to see what security improvements the bar has put into place.

“They have not given us that opportunity,” he said.

Ellie