MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Petty Officer 3rd Class Dexter Auelino Sutton, a native of Toms River, New Jersey, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to USS Scranton, homeported at Naval Base Point Loma. As a submariner, Gasper is part of a small percentage of Navy personnel continuing a 125-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety.
.jpg)
Sutton graduated from Freehold High School in 2023.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Toms River.
"A lesson I have learned is to be patient and remain vigilant," Sutton said. "These traits have helped me succeed."
Sutton joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Sutton serves as an information systems technician.
.jpg)
Sutton graduated from Freehold High School in 2023.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Toms River.
"A lesson I have learned is to be patient and remain vigilant," Sutton said. "These traits have helped me succeed."
Sutton joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Sutton serves as an information systems technician.
"I joined the Navy to better my life and for a future career," Sutton said.
Known as America’s “Apex Predators!,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technologically advanced vessels. These submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.
USS Scranton (SSN 756) is the second U.S. Navy ship to be named for Scranton, Pennsylvania. Scranton is a Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine. Los Angeles-class submarines have been the backbone of the submarine force for the last 40 years, with approximately 23 now in commission. They are equipped with 12 Vertical Launch System tubes for firing Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Strategic deterrence is the nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Gasper serves aboard a platform capable of bringing the fight to enemies in defense of America and its allies.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Sutton serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security.
"Serving in the Navy gives me a chance to grow personally," Sutton said.
Sutton is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
"I want to thank my girlfriend, Jordan, for being there throughout my journey," Sutton added.