USS Sutton (DE-771)

The USS Sutton (DE-771) was a Buckley-class destroyer escort of the United States Navy. She was named after Ensign Emory Joseph Sutton, Jr., who was killed in action during the Battle of Midway.

Launched on September 18, 1943, and commissioned on November 30, 1943, the USS Sutton served primarily in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Her duties included convoy escort, anti-submarine patrol, and providing fire support for amphibious landings. She participated in operations around the Marshall Islands, the Marianas Islands, and the Philippines.

Notably, the USS Sutton was involved in the Battle off Samar in October 1944 as part of Task Unit 77.4.3 (Taffy 3). She played a role in defending the escort carriers against a much larger Japanese fleet, engaging the enemy with her guns and torpedoes. Despite heavy damage sustained during the battle, the Sutton survived and continued to operate.

Following the end of World War II, the USS Sutton was decommissioned on June 12, 1946, and placed in reserve. She was struck from the Naval Vessel Register on June 30, 1968, and subsequently sold for scrap.

The USS Sutton (DE-771) earned five battle stars for her service during World War II. Her courageous actions, particularly during the Battle off Samar, cemented her place in naval history.