Louis Anthony “Lou” Conter, the last surviving witness of the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor, passed away on Monday, April 1, 2024, at the age of 102. Born on September 13, 1921, in Ojibwa, Wisconsin, Lou’s remarkable life was defined by courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his country.

Lou’s journey with the United States Navy began at the young age of 18 when he enlisted in Denver, Colorado, in November 1939, as war loomed on the horizon. After completing basic training in San Diego, California, he reported to the USS Arizona in 1940 as a Quartermaster, Third Class.

On that fateful morning of December 7, 1941, Lou found himself on watch duty aboard the USS Arizona, stationed between the ship’s third turret and main deck. When the Japanese planes descended upon Pearl Harbor, Lou and his comrades were thrust into the chaos of war. Despite the devastating onslaught, Lou’s actions were marked by bravery and selflessness. Knocked to the deck by a bomb blast, he immediately sprang into action, assisting wounded comrades and helping to prevent them from leaping into the fiery and shark-infested waters surrounding the sinking ship.

As the USS Arizona continued to list and sink, Lou responded to the abandon ship call, rowing a lifeboat to safety onshore. In the aftermath of the attack, he played a crucial role in recovery efforts, aiding in the retrieval of bodies and extinguishing fires that ravaged the ship.

Lou’s service extended beyond the events of Pearl Harbor. Throughout World War II, he served in theaters of conflict in New Guinea and Europe, and later participated in the Korean War aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard. After 23 years of dedicated service, Lou retired from the Navy in 1967, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Commander.

Despite the passage of time, Lou’s memories of December 7, 1941 remained vivid and haunting. His firsthand account of the attack serves as a testament to the resilience and sacrifice of those who served alongside him. Lou’s courage, humility, and unwavering patriotism embody the finest qualities of America’s greatest generation.

With Lou’s passing, we bid farewell to a remarkable individual whose legacy will endure as a symbol of courage and sacrifice. As we honor his memory, let us never forget the profound debt of gratitude owed to Lou Conter and his fellow servicemen who faced adversity with unyielding resolve on that infamous day in history.

Rest in peace, Lou Conter. Your courage will forever inspire generations to come.

---

In Loving Memory of Louis Anthony “Lou” Conter
1921 – 2024