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Minion Day Brings Big Smiles and Morale Boost to NSA Panama City

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December 18, 2025 | Story by Naomi Wilkins | Commander, Navy Installations Command | Fleet and Family Readiness

WASHINGTON – As part of “Anchored In Impact – Navy FFR 2025 Year in Review,” we’re highlighting unique moments from across Navy Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) that strengthened community and morale this year. At Naval Support Activity (NSA) Panama City, one creative idea from the Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) and Marketing teams sparked one of the installation’s most memorable events of the year: Minion Day.

What began as a lighthearted challenge from NSA Panama City’s Acting Commanding Officer (CO), Cmdr. Michael Mosi, quickly evolved into a full-fledged morale booster. Earlier this year, Navy Region Southeast’s marketing department encouraged the MWR teams and installation marketing departments across the region to think outside the box in how they use their websites and social platforms to promote MWR programs. NSA Panama City’s Marketing Specialist Rebecca Smith and Community Recreation Assistant Terida Williams accepted the challenge and set out to create something fun, engaging and community-centered. With the unwavering support of Cmdr. Mosi, Stuart the Minion entered the picture.

Originally introduced as a cheerful character in a video series promoting MWR events and facilities, Stuart quickly became more than a one-off idea. Whether he was training for a run, visiting MWR locations or helping build the stage for an upcoming concert, Stuart became a recurring star on social media. "He's our unofficial MWR mascot and loved by our community," said Smith.

In October, the team debuted “Super CO,” a twist that featured a printed image of Cmdr. Mosi's face on the Minion costume. Super CO appeared in promotional materials throughout the month, helping spotlight events such as the Navy Ball, Fall Festival and the Zombie Run, creating even more laughter across the base.

“We are so lucky to have such a wonderful MWR team here at Panama City. Time and time again, they deliver quality programming for our community. Whether it’s keeping our gym running 24 hours a day, providing activities outside of normal working hours, or slapping my face on a giant minion, they never fail to impress me with their dedication. MWR plays a vital role here, and I couldn’t be prouder of the work they do,” expressed Cmdr. Mosi.

With momentum building, Smith and Williams began brainstorming ways to make Halloween an event to remember. Inspired by the excitement around Stuart and Super CO, the team continued with the Minion theme, complete with the CO taking on the role of Gru, the iconic leader from Despicable Me. From that, Minion Day was born. 

Open to Sailors, civilians, family members and anyone with access to the installation, Minion Day aimed to bring people together, boost morale and continue highlighting MWR programs and facilities. The team provided low-cost and no-cost costume options and promoted the event across the installation through flyers, social media and the website. While the theme was fun, the goal remained to highlight MWR programs, activities and facilities. As a bonus, participants received a $2 off coupon for food and beverages at MWR locations. 

Weeks of preparation paid off. On the morning of the event, the community gathered for a “despicable” group photo at The Main Deck Pub and Grill, one of the installation’s food and beverage locations. Movies played throughout the day, staff dressed in costumes greeted visitors, and Stuart, the star of the show, made his rounds and interacted with attendees.

“It was very well received, and people have already started asking what we’re going to do next year,” Smith said, noting that Stuart has become a favorite among staff and patrons. “These are big shoes to fill, and people are already wondering where Stuart will show up next!”

In the end, Minion Day was not just a celebration of costumes and characters, it was a celebration of creativity, community and the power of MWR programming. Thanks to Smith, Williams and the support of leadership, NSA Panama City ended the season with a lot of laughter, a boost in morale and a new tradition the community can’t wait to see again.

For more information on NSA Panama City MWR, please visit https://www.navymwrpanamacity.com

No Federal or Navy endorsement implied.

 

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