AT&T Celebrating Independence Day with Thanks

Fireworks, BBQ, parades, time with family and friends…there is so much to look forward to going into the celebrations this weekend. As we pause tomorrow to celebrate the freedoms we enjoy this Independence Day, I hope we all remember those who have sacrificed so much to protect the rights we can often take for granted.

AT&T’s commitment to the military runs deep. It’s not something we choose to focus on once – or several times – during the year, but something that’s ingrained in the way we do business. Our nation’s service men and women make sacrifices to protect our country, and our freedoms, and we see it as an honor to serve them both at home and abroad.

On the home front, we know that one of the most important ways to show our appreciation for our veterans is to support them during their transition out of the military. We understand that veterans bring exceptional talent to the workforce, and our company has benefited greatly from the leadership, skills and character of the veterans who have joined our ranks. Over the next four years, AT&T has pledged to hire 10,000 veterans and their families as part of the Joining Forces Initiative. In 2013 alone, we hired more than 4,000 veterans and their family members, nearly five times as many veterans compared to 2012.

Through our work with the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), we celebrate and honor wounded veterans and their families by donating more than 3,000 tickets to concerts, sporting and family events across the country for them to enjoy. Over the past few years, we also have worked with WWP to raise funds and awareness for the Warriors to Work program that provides career guidance and support to help veterans transition into the civilian workforce.

Our employees also embody our commitment to serving those who have bravely served our country. Over the past several months, working with our longtime collaborator Cell Phones For Soldiers, employees in cities across the country gave their time to assist veterans in need. From cleaning wheelchairs and gardening, to brightening many veterans’ days by serving a hot meal, our employees came away from these events humbled and honored to show their support in this way.

So tomorrow, when you’re watching fireworks, soaking in the sun, or just simply enjoying the holiday, take a minute and remember those who made our independence possible and those who continue to protect our freedom. And if you know an active member or veteran, make sure to say “thank you.” 

“Cell Phones For Soldiers is grateful for AT&T and the continued support of its employees,” said Robbie Bergquist, co-founder of Cell Phones For Soldiers. “AT&T stands for service, service to our heroes. For more than seven years, Cell Phones For Soldiers has seen firsthand AT&T’s commitment to our troops and veterans.”