George,
You're right. # 18 would be my choice.
The Redan is a great par 3, but, the approach shot is rather limited, whereas on the 18th, a par 5, the drive, second and approach are all EXCITING and diverse, as are recovery shots.
George, when that hole is cut all the way back, it's one of the scariest shots in golf, from ON or OFF the green, especially when you can hear the American Flag snapping.
And when you're OFF the green, whether it's 5 yards or 150 yards, it's frightening.
There have been late afternoons when I've gone back and played it two dozen times, and each time, it just gets better and better.
While playing it casually is fun, playing it in a match or tournament adds an entirely different element.
The risk on each shot escalates dramatically.
In medal play, one must be guarded.
In match play, being one up, one down or all even brings different pressures and perspectives to the play of the hole.
The configuration of the bunkering, the roll and elevation of the terrain, the absence of visual guides on your second and approach shot, and the wind all conspire to produce one of the greatest holes in golf.