Hi Liver10,
Welcome to the board!
My grandfather was in the U.S. Navy stationed in New Caledonia during WWII. I've always wanted to go visit and see where he was, and get some diving in.
Your question has been asked a few times, and a search will pull up several threads relating to "what should I buy first?".
Check this one out:
Starting Out
Near the bottom is where I throw my opinion into the mix.
Glad to have you here! -BW