Mmm hmmm. IBallIcanbe....

SlowAssEg could probably answer most of your questions about the Air Force. Her BF is in it.
I know the AF guys have it a LOT better than Army guys have it. They get mo money, better food, better living quarters, and pretty much have a better job overall. Plus thier PT (physical training) requirements are said to be easier.
You did good to ask people in the service because a recruiter will lie through his or her teeth. It sucks but at least you've been warned.

Here's my situation. I get $1,015.00 every two weeks. I get free medical, free dental and free vision screenings. I can eat at the chow hall if I want to and save money, or go the teh grocery store. When I deploy to Iraq I'll get hazardous fire pay which amounts to a dollar amount a day.... not a lot but better than normal. On my anniversary of joining the Army I get a uniform/ clothing allowance which is nearly $300.00.
Every federal holiday is a three or four day weekend unless we're deployed overseas. We get thirty days of paid vacation a year, and are allowed to take three day passes provided we perform our jobs proficiently and our supervisor approves.
I've been in three years, and I'm about to be in charge of some people so that'll be cool.
Any other questions are welcome.