Posted on Feb 2, 2015
SPC Lukas Jones
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Since my enlistment, my father has been estranged to me due to my lifestyle choices conflicting with his religion. I no longer feel a connection to him or his family and I have long considered taking my mother's maiden name.

Since this is a relatively simple legal matter in the civilian realm, I am wondering what the process is in the Army.

Has anyone else gone through a similar experience that can help me out?
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Responses: 9
SFC Mark Merino
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I urge you to reconsider. Changing a last name is a permanent declaration that the relationship will never be repaired. I am not fully aware of how bad things have gotten in your family so I am answering just based on your description. Us old stubborn people need time to change our set ways. I have 3 kids that will be my "little monkeys" even if I make it to 100, butthe reality is that we raise them strong enough to make their own decisions as adults and spread their wings. A name change just seems too permanent to me.  
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SFC Detachment Ncoic
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I changed my name (8 years after we got married) while on Active Duty. It was a relatively simple DA4187. The longest/hardest part was waiting for it to come back from HRC or whereever approved. If you are really interested, I could dig up my old (2003) 4187 and give you an example, just let me know. It's part of my staple documents that go with me everywhere. It was easier to do the name change in the military than to do all the civilian stuff required, SSN card, DL, credit cards, banks, etc.
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SPC Lukas Jones
SPC Lukas Jones
9 y
Sargeant, I would be interested in hearing more about your experiences. Perhaps sending me a direct message if you would feel more comfortable doing so.
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SFC Detachment Ncoic
SFC (Join to see)
9 y
I will, give me a bit of time, am on my phone right now, hang tight until I can get to my laptop and type much better.
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1LT Infantry Officer
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6 y
SFC Jerilyn,
Do you still have the template that you used for the name change? If so, will you send it to me via message?
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SPC(P) Healthcare Specialist (Combat Medic)
SPC(P) (Join to see)
4 y
SFC, are you able to send me the sample 4187? Ive been looking for the last hour and cannot find a sample to save my life. Also if I want to change my name in the Army due to marriage do I only need my marriage certificate?
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SSG John Bacon
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You have to remember though that it's not just the name change paper work you have to fill out or get adjusted. Every aspect of your military life thus far has had your Father's Sir-Name all that needs to get adjusted or your in for a lot of confusion.
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COL Vincent Stoneking
COL Vincent Stoneking
9 y
This. And you will have to continually explain that the documents showing that Barretta, M. did something also means that Jones, M. did it. Look at the social! (assuming you don't change that for double the fun).

Also, I THINK you may be stuck with the same enterprise email. (Not sure, but I know plenty of women whose emails are their maiden/married surnames, despite a change).
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