Don't worry about the map knowledge and aiming Red, it'll come naturally as you play. The best way to ensure your squad joins together is to join a server with 17/24 people. That usually guarantees your squad being together when it loads up unless some more people join right as you do. Any more than 17 and you're pushing your luck.
Why were you guys always jumping out the choppers when you spawned in the gunner seat?

I'm not as effective if I don't have someone helping me against other choppers or infantry with their Stiglas. LT I know you had some annoying and random spawn and die moments but for the most part I stay alive for quite a while. XD
I enjoyed that one Kharg game where we came back and won by 10 tickets. I think that's when BF is at it's best...when both teams are constantly pushing forward and attacking the middle flags like B and C. Starts getting hectic with people spawning between there, tanks rolling up, choppers and jets firing missiles everywhere.