(Springfield) -- A few soldiers overseas will be opening Christmas boxes this holiday season courtesy of OTC students.

The Student Government Association organized "Operation Thank You" about a month ago.

Since then, they've been able to fill more than 70 boxes that will be shipped to soldiers from the U.S. Army 203rd Battalion from Missouri in the upcoming weeks.

Boxes include food like snack cakes and jerky, and also everyday items like toothbrushes and toilet paper.

Organizers say this project was an extension of Veteran's Day.

"Something like this is to really say, 'hey don't forget,'" says Student Government Senator Jeremy Boyts. "You know, just one day a year is great. Let's thank the soldiers but keep that going every single day."

"I can tell you from personal experience, as a veteran, that I remember every shoebox I've gotten and everything in it," says Michael Lungenell. "It's a real big thing for a soldier to get a box with just 'thank you' stuff in it."

Several local businesses and student organizations stepped in to cover some of the shipping costs; however, they are still raising money for the project.