There are so many truths in this lengthy thread that they tend to get lost.

- The 1911 in .45 was chosen over 100 years ago based on its effectiveness

- by the 1930's, shortcomings of having troop with just a pistol led to the development and adoption of the M1 carbine to give officers more firepower

- Korea showed that the M1 carbine did not like the cold weather, and the .30 carbine round did not always penetrate the quilted coats of the Chicoms. So, out with the .30 Carbine

- by 1985, the Browning Hi Power in 9mm was all the rage, so we went with 9mm NATO

- Women don't handle the 1911 well, and women are all in the service

- Troops that get shot at want something more effective than the 9mm

Did I miss anything?

"The Democrat Party looks like Titanic survivors. Partying and celebrating one moment, and huddled in lifeboats freezing the next". Hatari 2017

"Hokey religions and ancient weapons are no match for a good blaster at your side, kid." Han Solo