Thoughts going through my head at the time was that I didnt want to have to call an all in here but obviously more than happy to get my chips in the middle if im there first. Is this wrong? Should I just be looking for a way to get them in here?
You shouldn't see much difference between calling and raising all-in in this situation.
If he gets his chips in first, you're still going to be up against the same range of hands; but maybe some bluffs as well - which is a good thing
If you get your chips in first you're giving him a chance to fold a hand he might make a move with, but you still have same equity against a hand that calls against you.
You have to raise this flop, cos you don't want to see a J,Q,K, A or even a 5 peel the turn, which is simply too many cards. Pump it up, and be prepared to ship it in if it comes back to you...