If he's buying handguns at the Offutt BX, then he's in Nebraska.
I think the M&P is a much smarter choice for a personal firearm, but I would still take a Springfield XD over one. The S&Ws are replacing a lot of Glocks with police departments, but from what I heard in the SAPD was that the XD was rated over the M&P during the competition for a replacement service weapon; but S&W offered the department such a great deal on their pistols (plus the fact that they provide the ARs the department uses), they made the more economical choice.
Still, I have no problems with the M&P line and many people love them. I am just very partial towards the XD as the ones I have owned have been amazingly accurate and reliable.
Cheers! M2