John Sargeant, known as Jack, was the son of Henry Sargeant and Harriet Elizabeth Newbound. The family were originally shoemakers from Northampton but had moved toEsh Winning, where they worked as coal miners. In the 1911 census the family were living at 23, South Terrace, Esh Winning. Later they moved to Hollinside, near Lanchester. Jack was 18 and working as an underground labourer.

Jack was born about 1892. He was 18 years 3 months old when he attested March 15, 1910 to join the Territorial Army, Pte. 1379 of the 8th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry. He was 5' 3" tall, his chest was 33" and he had good vision. Jack had done annual training at Rothbury, July, 1910, Strensall, July, 1911, Scarborough, July 1912 and 1913.

Jack re-engaged14 March, 1914. He was now 22 years old. He was embodied 5 August, 1914 to 18, April, 1915. Jack was then sent abroad 19 April, 1915. One week later Jack was killed in action near Ypres, Belgium. His name is on the Menin Gate, Panel 36 and 38.

April 17, 1920, Henry Sargeant acknowledged receiving Jack's 1914-1915 Star, November 26, 1920 his British War Medal and May 20, 1921 Jack's Victory Medal.

Jack Sargeant was the great uncle of Vivien Ellis of Newton Aycliffe.