Flight following are the magic words. I work at a class C, you will get a
transponder code when you depart VFR. But unless you specifically say you
want flight following you will be terminated at 20 miles.

Yea, I know. Obviously you didn't catch that goof. A plane takes off out
of Columbia Missouri and heads 090 and then asks for flight following to
Wichita KS which is 270. I though you would catch it. I was embarrased
when the controller said "Well I'd be happy to...but..there's something I
can't quite understand....[10-15 second pause]...I'll tell you what, turn
heading 270 and that should get you to Wichita." I was so embarrased I know
I literally double-backed on his screen!