Hi Robert and welcome!

I understand your situation, and I think someone mentioned it before, but I think you would be the perfect candidate for the Hangar 9 P-51 PTS...

[link=http://www.hangar-9.com/PTS/Default.aspx]http://www.hangar-9.com/PTS/Default.aspx[/link]

There seems to be a general consensus in RCU that this isn't the very best trainer of the bunch, but considering you like the warbirds, I'd say it is the way to go! Of course, if you're stuck with electric, you will need something else. Its just that a trainer like the P51 includes everything you need to get started (and, IMHO, thats a GOOD thing when you are new).

Good luck!!
-Mike