I think I have an answer.... I have been able to permanently reorder and change alias names in ArcGIS by selecting the layer on an open map, selecting properties, then fields. There is a nifty screen that allows you to move fields up or down, and change the alias. Of course, saving the map makes the changes stick. Please check this out...I am a newbie, having worked in ArcGIS for just over a year. That means I make a zillion more mistakes than most of you! And I have to figure out how to fix them. I have found this to be very helpful when new data needs to be incorporated into an existing map layer. Cheers! And thanks for all the comments across the wide spectrum of GIS....I get a good education from all of you... I work through a virtual machine on the ArcGIS Desktop, and have no access to Pro. I think I'm happy where I am!
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