Promoting ‘Old Ironsides’ is Saugus man’s job

By Mark E. Vogler

For more than two years, Petty Officer 1st Class Raymond Minami has worked as the Navy’s public affairs officer/communications director, fielding questions from the news media and the public about “Old Ironsides.” That’s the nickname for the historic and U.S. Navy’s oldest commissioned warship (227 years old) that is moored in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston.

The Saugus man’s LinkedIn site describes his job as an “Accomplished public affairs professional overseeing strategic communication and media relations for the historic USS Constitution.” In addition, it says his position is also supposed to “Proactively develop and execute comprehensive communication plans to promote the USS Constitution’s mission, events, and initiatives to a diverse range of stakeholders.”

He is also supposed to “Establish and maintain relationships with local, national, and international media outlets to enhance the visibility and positive reputation of the USS Constitution as a major recruiting asset. Serve as the primary spokesperson, effectively communicating the ship’s rich history, educational programs, and community engagement efforts to the public.

“Collaborate with cross-functional teams to coordinate high-profile events, ceremonies, and public appearances, ensuring a consistent and compelling message. Utilize social media platforms and digital channels to engage audiences, cultivate a vibrant online community, and promote the USS Constitution’s unique story.

“Drive successful public affairs campaigns, garnering media coverage, increasing public interest, and fostering public support for the USS Constitution’s preservation and US Navy’s mission abroad. Stay abreast of emerging trends, best practices, and regulations in public affairs to continually enhance the ship’s communication strategies and maintain compliance. Develop and direct communications strategies and visions for the U.S. Navy’s oldest warship and national landmark. Lead communications staff in external/ internal communications and manage user experiences for over 600,000 in-person visitors and over 30 million virtual guests.”

Petty Officer 1st Class Minami has been a Mass Communications specialist in the US Navy for more than a dozen years and has become somewhat of an expert on the USS Constitution.