I trained on the 1911, shot and qualified on it, then trained on the M9, shot and qualified on it. Even bought a 92SF, carried it, etc.
It's big for me (5'6",) and has a larger grip than a G19. Good weight for a range gun, little recoil like the 1911. Lots of controls all over, kinda busy. So, I got a G19. Much simpler, slightly more recoil, shoots as well, much easier to carry.
In uniform or on the range, a M9 is ok. As a CCW piece, not so much.
As for being "selected" as the "best" in the competition for the Army, please remember the AF started that trial, and Italy reminded some VIP's in the food chain they were hosting some important bases for the Army/Navy in the Med. It was a political decision to give Beretta the contract, and the AF is happy. Too bad Glock came on the market just after.