Hello and welcome. Thank you for your service. I lived in MD for almost 20 yrs (dad retired out of the army at APG to bel air back in the 80's) and I have to say I never heard of Hollywood or California MD. Just looked it up, it looks like a wonderful location, especially for a retired navy guy.
For the rv show, realize hershey is a big show and as such can be a bit overwhelming. Take notes ie sunseeker - has xyz features but dislike cabinet space or whatever. At the end of the day sit down with your notes and input them into a spreadsheet. I usually did features that were important to us,across the top (ie price, length, Weight, kitchen island, etc), and make/model down the side. Doing this will help you cross some rigs off your list and give a fair comparison of the top competitors.
Take your time and imagine your usage. Are you looking for full hook up (typically private rv parks), partial or water/electric hook ups (state parks and national parks), or boondocking/dry camping (no hook ups)? The less hook ups means needs for larger grey and black tank sizes, no water hook ups could mean a need for larger fresh water tank. Dry camping, make sure you get enough generator power or solar power to get the power you need. Now think about where you will put things (ie moms clothes in this cabinet, dishes in that cabinet, dog bed over there.) Do this for outside storage too (wood, tools, chairs, etc). Will you be having grandkids join you? Is there sleeping space for them (ie fold out sofa, fold down dinette)? Will you be towing a toad? Can this handle the weight of that toad going up hills (think about usage in Appalachian mountains as well).
When discussing price, shoot for 25-30% off MSRP. I like to look at rv trader.com and compare prices. I find a the lowest price (throw out anything in shipshewana IN area) and compare features. I then go back to the local dealership with the price and options. I allow them the difference in options cost and what it would cost me to get the unit.
Next comes the pdi.... videotape it. If it opens, closes, turns on or off you want it demonstrated and you return demo. Check caulking and for any sign of leaks. Even climb on the roof to check it out. Have them show you how to winterize and dewinterize. Learn where your water pump and water heater are. Do not hand over anything other than the deposit until you are satisfied that everything is in working order and you are good with operating it.
Once you own it look into the
Geo method for tank management. Skip the fancy stuff and get yourself a good rhino sewer hose (@ least 20-30 ft), white fresh water hose (50 ft), water pressure regulator, a good surge protector with over/under protection, and a 50/30 amp adapter.
Happy hunting.
Don't hesitate to hit up this forum if any questions arise. No matter how trivial there is almost always some helpful soul about.
You had an Orion? It's a bit different these days isn't it. I'm sure I could look it up, but whats the MTOW like? I can imagine it must have been a major feat trying to manually keep quads in sinc. I would love to try and fly one, but quite honestly.. I lack the skills! 
Now it's all about fast, faster and dumbed down to the point a guy could practically take a nap.
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