About the Author

Samuel Sutton Jr. grew up in Kinston, North Carolina. His childhood home had no central heat or hot water, being that they were poor. He and his family walked seven miles both ways to church every Sunday because they didn't have a car. To help out, Sam picked tobacco during his summer vacations, starting at age ten.

Joining the Navy in 1979, Sam embarked on a thirty-year military career, serving starting as a sailor, then as an enlisted aide to the nation's top admirals and generals, and finally as a personal valet to presidents Bill Clinton, G. W. Bush, and Barack Obama. He served, juggling multiple tasks in his position that made him a virtual member of the First Family, and an eyewitness to their public and private lives.

Born to Serve is also a surface reflection of the complex dynamics of race and politics at the highest levels of the military and government. From his first day as valet, Sam's close proximity to the president made him a target for those who craved access to the most powerful man in the world. The competitive pressure would end Sam's career as valet prematurely, but kick start the next chapter in his life of adoption and parenting of a son out of the foster care system.

Told with candor, warmth, and good ole southern hospitality, this is the story of a man who overcame significant adversity to serve his country with tireless faith and dedication.