You can read or watch whatever you want to get tips but the best way to know what to do is to get out there and do it. If I were you, I'd go with your friend afew times. If he is willing and has enough land to hunt then I'd say go ahead and keep scouting and set up a stand afew hundred yards away. If you must hunt alone on public land then you should go in and scout it asap. Look for scrapes and rubs but also look for intersecting trails, natural funnels such as valleys and cliff faces, and bedding areas in thickets. If you do go out alone make sure that some knows exactly where you're going and what time you're going to be back. That way if you hunt out of a stand and you fall out or if something else happens they'll be able to find you.

As far as what to wear. Deer can't see color but they can see contrast. Camo is a great idea because of this. Personally, I couldn't afford one of those scentlock camo jackets. I took spray paint and some old carhardts and made my own. Works well enough. You can go out and buythat anti scent stuff. An uncle of mine told me to wash my stuff in baking soda. It seems to do the trick. They have anti scent soap and shampoo. You might try some of that. I've never used it though so I can't say either way.

There are plenty of ways to hunt. You can still hunt (alot of people call this "stalking"). This involves moving, very slowly, and sitting for a period of time. Then moving. You cover alot of area this way. For new people, I recommend stand hunting or blind hunting. You stay still and aren't noticable to the deer. A great way to do it. Remember though to always walk in and out on the same path. Try to walk in on an a creek bed or depression or trail of some sort where you're scent won't be very noticeable to a deer.

Weaponry:
Being a military man you probably have plenty of guns. If any of them are legal for hunting then I'd start with one of those. I don't know what the regulations in your state say so I can't recommend any particular one to you. A rifle will obviously give you a longer range to a shot gun or even a muzzleloader. Personally, I use a muzzleloader. The new inlines are easy to use and in some states are legal for both firearms and muzzleloader seasons. They are more than effective out past 150 yds. A bow is also good if you are looking for a long season but you must be close. Check the regulations for where you live and then make your decision.

Lastly, welcome to the forum. If ya have any questions then just ask.