Vice Admiral Dorsett graduated from Jacksonville University (Florida) in 1978. His sea duty included assignments on HMS Gavinton (M1140), USS Elliott (DD 967), USS Oldendorf (DD-972), USS Dominant (MSO-431), USS Ranger (CV 61), deputy assistant chief of staff for Intelligence for commander 6th Fleet, and assistant chief of staff for Intelligence for commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command / 5th Fleet.