Lou Conter, the last living survivor of the USS Arizona battleship that sank during the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, has passed away at the age of 102. Conter’s death marks the end of an era, as he was one of the few remaining eyewitnesses to one of the most pivotal events in American history.
Conter served as a quartermaster on the USS Arizona and witnessed the devastating attack on December 7, 1941. He recounted the harrowing experience of the ship being lifted out of the water by a massive explosion and the chaos that ensued as sailors scrambled to escape the burning vessel.
After surviving the attack, Conter went on to serve in the Pacific theater during World War II as a pilot, flying combat missions in PBY patrol bombers. He also played a crucial role as the Navy’s first SERE officer, training pilots and crew on survival techniques in case of being shot down and captured.
Despite his remarkable military service and enduring legacy, Conter remained humble, emphasizing that the true heroes were the thousands who lost their lives in the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Conter’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who served their country during World War II. As we mourn his loss, we also honor his memory and the legacy of those who served alongside him on that fateful day in history.
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