TOMS RIVER – Petty Officer 3rd Class Dexter Auelino Sutton, a Toms River native and 2023 graduate of Freehold High School, is serving aboard the USS
Scranton
, a Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine based at Naval Base Point Loma.
Sutton, who joined the Navy two years ago, serves as an information systems technician and is part of a select group of submariners continuing the Navy’s 125-year tradition of undersea service.
“A lesson I have learned is to be patient and remain vigilant,” Sutton said. “These traits have helped me succeed.”
Sutton said he enlisted to improve his life and build a future career. “Serving in the Navy gives me a chance to grow personally,” he added, expressing gratitude to his girlfriend, Jordan, for her support.
USS
Scranton
is among the Navy’s 23 active Los Angeles-class submarines, known for their rapid deployment capabilities and equipped with Vertical Launch System tubes for Tomahawk missile strikes.
As the U.S. Navy marks its 250th anniversary this year, officials highlight the importance of recruiting talented individuals like Sutton to safeguard national interests, secure maritime trade, and protect global communications infrastructure.
“America’s prosperity and security depend on people like Petty Officer Sutton who serve far forward, around the world and around the clock,” Navy officials said.
