This month, the United States marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As our country celebrates this milestone, we’re reminded that the freedoms that have endured over two-and-a-half centuries were secured by generations of service members and sustained through the sacrifice and dedication of current military members and their families.
Across the TDS Family of Companies – and within the communities we serve – we put our gratitude into action by supporting these heroes and their families through initiatives that foster connection, recognition and service.
A key component of this support is the TDS Patriot Associate Resource Group, founded in 2016. The group provides a sub-community within the larger TDS workforce for Veterans, current military service members, first responders, and non-military supporters. The group offers opportunities for volunteerism, hosts educational sessions, supports service focused organizations, and celebrates military holidays and events throughout the year.
TDS also recognizes Veteran associates through meaningful gestures of appreciation. In 2025, the company honored 379 TDS Telecom associates with a custom engraved TDS challenge coin, along with an additional day of paid time off. This serves as a tangible reminder of the respect TDS holds for those who have bravely defended our freedoms.
Beyond the workplace, TDS supports the greater Veteran community in a variety of ways. TDS recently sponsored one of its associates to serve as a guardian on the Old Glory Honor Flight, escorting two fellow Veterans on a powerful journey, alongside others, to reflect on their military service and visit national memorials dedicated to their sacrifice.
Patriot Associate Resource Group members also volunteer with the Veterans Administration, including helping with resume-building workshops for veterans, and supporting organizations such as the Badger Honor Flight through donations and associate participation.
Beyond supporting our Veterans, we can make the 250th celebration meaningful in a variety of ways.
The official America250 organization is striving for “350 for 250” – engaging all 350 million Americans to join in the celebration in whatever way they can, including through acts such as charitable contributions or volunteering.
On the organization’s website, you can find a local block party through the Official America’s Block Party Map and learn about a variety of other initiatives that connect all Americans to this historic milestone.
As companies throughout the U.S. shift through mergers and acquisitions, disruptive technology, and other factors, TDS is proud to remain a family-operated company for over 55 years and takes an active role in creating a better country through high-quality communications services.
We thank all of our Veterans, service members, and their families for making this celebration possible. With a particularly eventful July 4 weekend ahead, we hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday!
