It takes seven years to achieve American citizenship through marrage. And as a side note the following appeared in the Pensacola News Journal about their respective occupations:
"Both soldiers had served in the regular Army before joining the National Guard. Blackwell was discharged last year and planned to attend Pensacola Junior College but was called up with the Guard before classes began in January, his mother said.
Blackwell has two young daughters, one from a previous marriage, the other out of wedlock, McKee said. Each is residing with her respective mother.
Dagen, a marine engine mechanic in civilian life, has never been married, said Gwen Tuton, a cousin and Walnut Hill neighbor."
A good marine engine mechanic can make a lot of money, although I'm not sure how good this guy is.
From someone I know who is currently in this situation I was given to understand that one can divorce after three years and still be on tract for US citizenship. They may not be full US citizens but will have legal resident status. This may not be true but I was told that after that period one has their work permit and can stay in the country on their own merit. I will have to look into this some more to be sure because you may be right. I do believe that the laws were changed recently and that the seven year limit was no longer required. I'd like to find out more about this. I know for a fact that the American spouse must sign paper saying they will be financially responsible for their immigrant mate for a period of ten years. I believe they can divorce after three but the former spouse is still responsible until the ten year term has expired.