Remembering Colonel John E. “Jack” Lingo and Honoring Delaware’s Veterans
America’s 250th Anniversary | November 2026
As we commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, November offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the men and women whose service and sacrifice have helped shape our nation. Veterans Day reminds us to honor those who answered the call to serve—and to recognize the contributions they continued to make after returning home.
Here in Sussex County, that history is part of our community and the story of Jack Lingo, Inc., REALTOR®.
Colonel John E. “Jack” Lingo served his country during World War II and the Korean War. His military career spanned 26 years and included responsibilities as a pilot and military leader. Following his service, he returned to coastal Delaware and began a new chapter in real estate. In 1974, he founded Jack Lingo, Inc., REALTOR® in Rehoboth Beach.
For his family, Colonel Lingo’s legacy extends far beyond his military accomplishments and the business he established. It lives on through his three sons: John E. Lingo, Jr., his eldest; T. William “Bill” Lingo, President of Jack Lingo, Inc., REALTOR®; and Bryce Lingo, who leads one of the area’s most successful real estate teams.
John E. Lingo, Jr., remembers his father as “one of the Greatest Generation”—the generation whose service and sacrifice during World War II helped shape the course of history. For the Lingo family, that description carries personal meaning, reflecting both his service to his country and the example he set for his sons.
“Our father brought the discipline, determination, and sense of duty of his military career into his life at home and in business,” says T. William “Bill” Lingo. “He had high expectations and believed in hard work, personal responsibility, and following through on your commitments. Those principles shaped the company he built and remain an important part of his legacy.”
Bryce Lingo recalls a phrase his father often used when teaching his sons something new. Whether it was learning to ride a bicycle, fixing something, or mastering a new task, once they had accomplished it, the Colonel would declare, “Now you are in business.” It was a simple expression, but one that reflected his belief in learning by doing, becoming self-reliant, and taking pride in a job well done
More than 50 years after its founding, Jack Lingo, Inc. remains a family-owned company with deep roots in coastal Delaware. While the region has changed, the importance of integrity, personal relationships, and service to others continues to guide its work.
Colonel Lingo’s story is one of many that reflect Delaware’s tradition of military service. Throughout Sussex County, veterans are our neighbors, friends, family members, and colleagues. Their contributions to our communities continue long after their years in uniform.
The Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro offers a place to remember those who served. Honoring veterans also means recognizing the needs of those living among us today.
In Milford, the Home of the Brave Foundation provides transitional housing and support to veterans experiencing homelessness. This Veterans Day, we invite you to join us in supporting Home of the Brave and the important work it does for Delaware veterans. Home of the Brave is located at 6630 Sharps Rd., Milford, DE 19963. Learn more at homeofthebravefdn.org.
As we reflect on 250 years of American history, we remember Colonel John E. Lingo with pride and extend our gratitude to all who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Their service deserves our gratitude. Their legacy deserves to be remembered.
From the Lingo family and all of us at Jack Lingo, Inc., REALTOR®, thank you to our veterans.
