1 inch by 1 inch bases are what the rules recommend in section 3.2.
All of my infantry for all nationalities have 5 figures to the stand. It really does not matter for game play purposes how many you use. I like to think of the stands as mini dioramas. I arrange figures so they look good, add bits of terrain etc.
Adding a base to all units allows you to label them with an identification # which is critical for identifing the HQ units, a unit with an FO etc.
Re-read section 3.2 of the rules, it lays out the base requirements pretty clear. I have played 50+ games and found that the recommendations in section 3.2 really do make the game flow smoother.
For my figures I use 1 inch by 1 inch metal bases so I can easily store them on magnetic strips in boxes.
Please do post pics of your figures. I for one always enjoy seeing other peoples work.
I've been basing my vehicles as well as armour. At first I wasn't going too, but after I did some play testing of the modern rules, I chose too do so. It does help with with movement and keeps everything on the board in unison.
Doug
A goal is not always meant to be reached, it often serves simply as something to aim at.
Bruce Lee