Now pay attention... Modeling and animation is difficult and very time consuming. It can not be mastered in a few days, or weeks. Your first attenpts will not impress anyone, but you will improve over time. It can be very rewarding but it takes time and patience.
CISC4346Quake 2 Modeler - The simple, program has been used to model many Quake 2 (.md2) models. It is freeware.
Aztec - Another freeware program. Aztec has a few more features than the Quake 2 Modeler, but it is also still in development.
MilkShape - Shareware ($20), 30day trial. Does modeling and animation (very popular, middle hard to learn - some would say the best choice). If you short-term need is longer, you can continue to use it by re-installing it to the desk-top as each 30-day period expires.
MisFit Modeler - Freeware. Does modeling and animation (new).
Wings Modeler - Freeware program, only does modeling but is easy to learn.
Blender - Freeware program, modeler and animator (the most professional open source) with a middle hard to learnng curve.
GMax - Freeware program w/free registration. Gmax is probably the most complete and professional, has a little heavier learning curve. If your planning on doing lots of modeling you should probably dive in, it is made by the same company that makes LightWave.
GMax importer (md2) - You will also need this GMax patch to allow it to import ".md2" files.
NPherno's Skin Tool - Useful for drawing skins on your model and simple touch up work. Use in combination with your favorite paint program.
Md2viewer - An excelent md2 model/animation viewer.
Md2viewer Home - Quick command reference for Md2viewer.
PlanetQuake - http://www.planetquake.com/ has quake II models as well as other...
Wally - Paint program designed specifically for drawing and editing tileable textures.
vgtunes - Video Game tunes.