[Jeff Lee]

Thanks for your service to our country and at least you have some resources on base for machine equipment.
I'm no FE guy but I would suggest you buy some good NHRA acceptable aftermarket rods along with NHRA acceptable 428 pistons from Diamond and get some good rings that are made for a stocker. Sources are Tri-City Competition for good / affordable rings. Have the block decked to specs and honed.
This will get you the favorable 2.100" rod journal, rods that live and pistons / rings that seal. Make sure the heads are in line with specs including your cam.
Purchase a Sportsman single 10" to save the trans from destruction while you save for a Jerico.
Go racing and whatever it runs, is what it will run. The fast stuff is VERY expensive. I think this will be as cheap as possible and you should have fun.