Adam Flores has never traveled on an aircraft and has rarely left the Big Horn Basin in search of adventure. But on Memorial Day he boarded a plane in Denver to head to the biggest adventure of his young life; boot camp in San Diego as a Marine recruit.

Once he finishes boot camp he’ll head to the East Coast to Quantico, Virginia, for further training for his career as part of the Marine’s security forces guarding the White House or one of the many U.S. diplomatic posts around the globe.

The United States has the second most active diplomatic posts of any country in the world after the People's Republic of China, including 271 bilateral posts (embassies and consulates) in 173 countries as well as 11 permanent missions to international organizations and seven other posts (as of November 2023).

Flores’ family and friends joined supporters Thursday at the American Legion Hughes-Pittinger Post 26 for a Blue Star Banner service and celebration complete with cake. Families are encouraged to display the banner in the window of a home when a loved one is serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

The blue star represents one family member serving, and a banner can have up to five stars, according to the American Legion. The organization helped reintroduce the Blue Star Banner to Americans following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks by providing banners to military families across the nation. The banner was designed and patented in 1917 by World War I Army Capt. Robert L. Queisser of the 5th Ohio Infantry. His two sons served on the front line. His banner quickly became the unofficial symbol for parents with a child in active military service.

“This will be my first time traveling by plane,” Flores said. “I’m pretty excited.”

Flores surprised his father and stepmother, Leopoldo and Andrea Flores, with the decision. Leopoldo said his son just came home one day and announced his decision.

“Words can’t express the feelings I have right now,” Leopoldo said. “I’m a little worried for him with all that's going on in the world, but, for the most part, it's all good. We're all excited for him.”

Adam Flores is known as a tough kid, standing tall and straight, and was looking for a challenge after graduation from Powell High School.

“Everything that I've ever been told about the Marines from veterans that I know; it is the hardest training. But it’s that idea of brotherhood that's lifelong that drew me in,” he said. “They're all family.”

Post 26 Commander Tim Heine said the Blue Star Banner is a symbol recognizing the sacrifices of military families.

“On this day we are so proud to see so many family and friends gathered to say thank you to those who serve,” Heine said. “With our nation's all volunteer force, the family is very much part of the effort.”

Flores’ family and friends watched the ceremony while he stood proudly with his parents between veteran Danielle Rempfer, 2nd vice commander of the post, and Russell Stafford, Department of Wyoming 2nd vice commander. Smiles were broad as they all gathered close for a family photo before digging into the special cake.

Heine said Flores will be in the prayers of American Legion members as he departs on Memorial Day.

“It is our prayer that this Blue Star Banner will serve as a visible reminder to our troops and their families that we stand behind you,” Heine said. “We are proud of you and for your family here today who have their loved one deployed in service to our country.”