mjk5401,
The last I heard they are going to have 8 tails total at Elmendorf. They are not getting brand new jets, but rather some "gently-used" models from Charleston & McChord (Maybe any CHS/TCM people can tell you which tails). The rumor is that they are getting 6 this summer and then 2 in the fall.
As far as the things entailed in standing up a new Squadron, it depends on how much has been done by the PIO, and how much of the infrastructure they are using from the Hercs, and how much they have to create. I heard on another forum that they were moving into some of the old Herc bldgs until a new bldg was done (anyone at Elmendorf right now have any intel on that).
PACAF vs. AMC, this would take up a good page, so here is the abbreviated version. There are good and bad things with being in PACAF vs. AMC. They are not used to Strat Air in PACAF (or airlift in general, they are structured around the fighter community), so you will have more protection from the usual TACC abuse (i.e. not usually Friday or Sat at 1830 drop downs, etc). However, since they are not used to airlift, you will have some heartache in dealing with AMD or PACAF or your own base wing (don't always understand the dynamics of going on a trip without your whole Sq with you).
Bottom line: if you want to fly more/deploy, go to CHS/TCM . If you want more quality of life/time with family/get your masters done for 3-4 years, go to Alaska. You will still get to fly a good amount, but I am guessing it would be less than the CHS/TCM and definitely less combat time.
Elmendorf may still get a chance to have a few crews deployed to the EAS, but it will be more like 1-2 crews at a time, probably not the entire Squadron.
In addition, you will be working with the Alaska Guard since they will be a C-17 associate unit, something currently unique to PACAF (as far as Guard associates in Strat Air, that is).
Hope that helps, congrats on almost being done with SUPT!
Biggie