An American soldier is being discharged for taking a break from a foot patrol in Baghdad to marry an Iraqi woman.
Sgt Sean Blackwell, 27, is being punished for divulging the time and location of the patrol to his bride and the Iraqi judge who married them.
The Florida National Guardsman avoided a possible court-martial for dereliction of duty and disobeying orders.
Sgt Blackwell received a written reprimand in advance of the discharge, attorney Mr Richard Alvoid said.
He said: "The more they punish him, the more negative publicity the military will receive. He is guilty of falling in love."
Florida Guard spokesman Lt Col Ron Tittle said he had no word on disciplinary action against Blackwell or a second Florida guardsman, Cpl Brett Dagen (37), who married another Iraqi woman in a double ceremony during a break on the same patrol on August 17th. Both women are doctors.
The soldiers, attached to the 1st Armoured Division, have been in Iraq since April. Both were Christians who converted to Islam before they married.
Blackwell's mother, Ms Vickie McKee, said in Florida her son told her he could be discharged and sent home by Christmas.
The Army has not permitted Sgt Blackwell to see his bride since the wedding but recently allowed them to resume contact by telephone, Ms McKee said.
Mr Alvoid said he hoped to complete a book deal for Sgt Blackwell and his wife, and that a movie may follow.