Well, I believe it's still there. If you look under the dash you should be able to find the plug for the clutch interupt. There should be a dummy plug someplace that allows you to plug it into.
The is a concern while on the trail since you won't be able to start the engine unless the clutch is in. This is a problem when you're on a hill and depressing the clutch could have you rolling backwards too far and then you have to worry about jumping on the throttle afterwards.
I don't think any shop would put an remote starter in an automatic. Way too much liability. Not to mention if the ignition requires a chip, that's an extra key hidden up in the dash for someone to look for.
But since you're in Socal, I can't really feel for ya. It never gets that cold like it does up north. The 2.4L should heat up fairly fast even in winter. I've never had a problem with starts or getting it warmed up. I mean, what are your fellow Marines going to say when they hear about you complaining about a little rain and some chill in the air?