Wartime in Desert Town

As representatives of the Twentynine Palms community, we take exception to your article of Feb. 20 that portrayed Twentynine Palms as a city experiencing increased crime and substantial economic decline as a result of the August, 1990, deployment of our Marines and sailors to Saudi Arabia in support of our nation’s efforts in that region.

A close examination of the records of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s office will indicate that, with one exception, there has been no appreciable increase in crime in this community associated with the deployment. It is true that a number of homes in town vacated at the time the deployment began were burglarized, but the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department took appropriate action and a suspect is now in custody.

The Twentynine Palms Chamber of Commerce has 280 members. These members account for about one-half of the businesses located in Twentynine Palms. Of the more than 500 businesses located in our area, one has closed since the August deployment. Many businesses have felt the impact of the absence of so many Marines and look forward to their return, but these same businesses have remained economically viable.

We would be remiss if we did not mention the strong support felt by wives for their deployed Marines and sailors, and the strength of character they continually display while dealing with this difficult situation. A vast array of support services is available to the families. These include counseling, financial assistance, emotion and spiritual support, and the special camaraderie that is enjoyed by military wives and families.

The city of Twentynine Palms and the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center enjoy a close and mutually beneficial relationship. The people of this combined community have faced the current challenge in an admirable fashion.

Additionally, the members of our community are extremely proud that our Marines and sailors are playing such a central role in Operation Desert Storm. We do pray that all return quickly and safely.

JAMES E. LIVINGSTON

Brigadier General, Commanding General

Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center

CHRISTOPER DOBLER

Mayor of Twentynine Palms

CATHY BENSON

President, Chamber of Commerce

Twentynine Palms