I was a Windstream network tech for 31 years and 1 month. Was offered a buyout on July 6th 2017, had until July 12th to accept or reject the offer.
I took the offer, was informed I was accepted on July 18th... and I was out the door on August 3rd. Yippee !
Feel bad for my coworkers I left behind though. In a small exchange, it'll be rough for them.