Force removed on runners by putting out B-R

Question
Had this happen in a game last night:
Runners on 1st and 2nd, less than 2 outs.
Batter grounds a ball that initially is in foul territory but slowly rolls into fair territory.  1B picks up the ball and steps on first base, retiring BR.  Runners did not try to advance and remained on their bases.  Had 1B tagged the runner on first and then stepped on the bag, this would have been a double-play.

I contend that the only way either of the runners could have been put out after 1B retired the BR by touching first base is by tagging the runner if they are not in contact with a base they are entitled to occupy.  The force on R1 and R2 is removed once the BR is put out and they may legally occupy the base they were previously being forced to vacate.

Correct?

There was some confusion on the field on whether after the BR was put out by stepping on first base, that the other runners could have been tagged out while in contact with their initial base.

Answer
Hi Mike,

you have it absolutely correct. there is nothing I can add to your understanding of the rule.

I'm confused why there would be any confusion on the field about this at all, once the b-r is put out all forces are removed, this is pretty basic 101 softball.  Why would anyone think R1 or R2 would be in jeopardy while standing on their base after the b-r was put out?


Mark