Get OrderID in scope to display w/New Alpha OrderRef in System Emails (Confirm, Shipping, etc..) 1.6

[jennywill]

I have seen some questions similar, but not exactly to what I need.  So if this is a re-post of an already answered question, please feel free to point me in the right direction. 

 

I just need to know how to populate {$order_id} so that it will display along with the new Alpha order reference number on the emails that are sent to the customer. (Confirmation, Shipping, Tracking Etc...)

 

Too much of our business is reliant on these order_id numbers.  I have been able to make the id available everywhere needed except the emails the customer receives because is seems that order_id is no longer in scope to use it as {$order_id} in the templates.

 

I do not want, nor do I need, a module.  If that is the answer it will not work here as it will introduce more than it will be worth for our use. 

 

I simply wish to be pointed in the direction so that I can get order_id in scope to the system emails so that it will display using {$order_id} like it used to.

 

I did look through the pdf folder invoice.tpl line 77 mentioned prioir, and there isn't anything there that will assist in this change.  I also did look through the mails folder and I did not see any php or tpl files to assist. 

 

Also note that I do not use the pdf invoices, just the emails that are sent. 

 

Thank you in advance for any pointers.