Johnny's Saloon, a mainstay in the sunny surfside city of Huntington Beach, Calif., is currently trying to save its iconic marquee that proclaims thanks and support for American veterans. Featuring a POW/MIA symbol, the black-and-gold billboard proudly situated on top of the bar reads: "Thank a veteran for your freedom!"
The OC Weekly reported that bar owner Johnny Kresimir will be hit with a $960 fine from the city's code enforcement department if he does not remove the famous sign from the roof of his bar as soon as possible.
A popular punk-rock haven in the sporty Southern California city, Johnny's Saloon opened in 1982 and began spreading its "thank a veteran message" since the early '90s, according to the establishment's website. Kresimir's father, Johnny Kresimir, Sr., frequently had customers come in who were World War II, Korean and Vietnam veterans and wanted to express his support. The OC Weekly added that Johnny's Saloon is known for its community outreach efforts in support of veterans' charities.
"After spending $1,000's sponsoring the city's Marine 3/1 Marathon & The Surf City Veterans Day Car Show this is the thanks we get," Kresimir told the news source. "Every car dealership can do whatever they want whenever they want making Beach Blvd tacky but us little guys … want to spread a positive message."