Yes, they have leeway in what they can carry, and many may carry a 1911, but I'm not seeing any evidence that those are issued, specifically a double stack para, a gun that is not known for reliability.
Sorry, I had misspoke, I was not aware of what they were issued, just what they carried. My apologies on the misunderstanding. Granted, this was also between 2005-08, so, not sure what they were actually issued then. Just remember working with them, and the US Marshals a time or two, and everytime I was impressed with their professionalism, and their work ethics. Worked with a couple other agencies that I wont mention, but they made me glad that I never ended up trying to work with them, cause I about lost hair trying to DEAL with them, and they were on my side.