Rockchalk, if you are FTU bound...there is no decision...try to get to Ellsworth. It is 1000% more focused on tactics and is a way better place for a young guy. The MX and sortie rates are demosntrably better in the Tigers and TBirds. If Texas is your kind of place and you stick around long enough, you'll end up there anyway. So go to South Dakota. There's plenty to do in Rapid. Abilene will be waiting like a giant vacuum of suck to bring you back anyway