I rode a Dyna before my UC, so I can't really draw a comparison there.
Mine is a 2007. I did rent a 2009 out in San Diego and road for 3 days through Mission Gorge, Shelter Valley (Sunrise Hwy, Ocotillo, Jullian, Decanso etc). It was a good comparison of the 2007 vs. the 2009 in handling since the riding conditions spanned just about everthing.
The adjustable rear suspension (of the ultras/touring models) really makes a handling differences as the load changes (solo, passanger, gear etc). I really like that feature and I think it is important for handling and safety, whatever the model you choose. Having some adjustment ability, especially with touring and varying load weights vs. conditions is a must in my book. The ultra does well here.
I don't have ABS on my 2007, but the 2009 rental did. I tested the ABS on some straights and some turns. I would highly recommed that feature.
The gearing in the tranmission changed as well in comparison. I think the 6th gear isn't so high to that you can use it more effectively under 70mph.
The rental also had the feature where you could shut off the rear cylinder by twisting the throttle backwards. While I did feel a difference sitting a lights, I am on the fence on this feature. It is nice but it seems to me it is another gizmo that could have issues.
I have never used the CB or the intercom, but those features came with my bike (bought it used).
As a highway ride it is very comfortable, although I think the a backrest should be standard. My wife is 126lbs/5'6" and she has no problems with the comfort or fit as a passanger in the stock configuration of the foot pegs/seat. Nor did my father 170/5'9" for a recent 7 hour trip in the remnants of a hurricane. Here I would second the comments that a the weight of the UC really reduces fatigue as you are less impacted by wind blast form trucks and the weather. You can relax a bit more. Again, if you want to rack up the miles, the UC really reduces fatigue, letting you travel farther, more alert.
My rear wheel compensator (now standard) is on order, but that big improvement is now standard. From this board, the greatest improvement over the stock set up was adding the TFI unit to simply richen up the fuel. I assume that a unit like that is made for the new models and I would consider it. So, out of the box, I would have a stock model Ultra Classic with a back rest and ABS. Add a "fueler" to get out of EPA lean and you will be very happy if you plan to put on mile after mile after mile....solo, two up or a full load.
I have been very, very happy with my ultra. I don't think you will be unhappy cruising in comfort!
(Thank you for your service! Glad you are safe!)