Lou Conter, the final survivor of the USS Arizona, has passed away at the age of 102.
Lou Conter, the last remaining survivor of the USS Arizona, a Navy battleship that was sunk during the surprise Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, has died at the age of 102. Conter passed away peacefully at his home in Grass Valley, California, surrounded by his family. His daughter, Louann Daley, confirmed the news. Conter’s passing marks the end of an era and serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in World War II.
Conter’s involvement in the war and his experiences aboard the USS Arizona during the attack have made him a symbol of resilience and bravery. Through interviews, a book, and his active participation in memorial services, Conter dedicated his life to ensuring that the public never forgot the horrors of that fateful day. The attack on Pearl Harbor not only claimed the lives of 1,177 sailors but also left many survivors with severe injuries.
As a 20-year-old quartermaster on the USS Arizona, Conter played a vital role in rescuing fellow crew members on December 7, 1941. His firsthand account of the bombing described the moment when a Japanese armor-piercing bomb struck the battleship, triggering a massive explosion that catapulted the vessel out of the water. Despite the chaos and devastation, Conter and his comrades worked tirelessly to save as many lives as possible.
Conter’s heroic actions on that day earned him respect and admiration among his peers. He was one of the 335 crew members who survived the attack on the USS Arizona, outliving all of them. The recent passing of Ken Potts, the second-to-last survivor, further highlights the passing of a generation that bravely served their country.
Aileen Utterdyke, president and CEO of Pacific Historic Parks, expressed her sorrow at Conter’s death and praised him as a true member of the Greatest Generation. She highlighted the collective courage, accomplishments, and sacrifices of individuals like Conter that saved the country from tyranny. Conter’s advocacy for remembering Pearl Harbor and his exemplary career in the Navy made a lasting impact on future generations.
Conter’s legacy extends beyond his service in World War II. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, he continued to serve in the Navy as a VP-11 Black Cat pilot during the war. The Black Cats conducted covert operations at night, remaining hidden from enemy ships. Conter not only survived two shootdowns but also braved encounters with sharks during his service.
