RE: M1911 in military service
I knew once, but promptly forgot (so sorry!) back when I was with an active unit. I shook my head in disbelief. Since then we have figured out that the Beretta does not handle sand real well. Perhaps a change will be forthcoming. I understand that the USMC has done some re-issuing of the old 45's, but I don't know how widespread. Overall, I think the bigger mistake was the M16 but that rifle must have just the right amount of political suction as it just keeps getting modified.
Dumb logistics cost lives.