[2] Sargent graduated from the United States Coast Guard Academy in 1938.

During World War II, Sargent first served aboard USCGC Modoc.

After commanding a United States Navy submarine chaser, he was assigned to USCGC Duane before becoming the first commander of USS Sandusky and serving in the Philippines Campaign.

In 1968, Sargent was named chief of staff of the United States Coast Guard.

In a ceremony held November 9, 2017, Sargent was inducted into the United States Coast Guard Academy's 2017 Wall of Gallantry in recognition of distinguished acts of heroic service by a board of academy cadets.