And then there was one! Lou Conter (101) is the last survivor of the USS Arizona.
Lou Conter is the last surviving member of the USS Arizona, a battleship that was destroyed during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The attack was a surprise military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy, and it led to the United States’ entry into World War II. (After the recent death of Ken Potts, one of the last two survivors of USS Arizona, at age 102).
Conter was just 20 years old and serving as a quartermaster on the USS Arizona when the attack happened. He was in the ship’s control tower when he heard explosions and saw smoke rising from the harbor. He rushed to his battle station and started firing at the attacking planes, but it was too late. The Arizona was hit by several bombs, and the ship exploded and sank, taking the lives of 1,177 crew members with it.
Conter was one of the lucky ones. He was blown off the ship and into the water, where he swam to nearby Ford Island. From there, he helped to man a machine gun and shoot down several Japanese planes. He also helped to rescue several of his shipmates who had survived the attack but were stranded in the water.
Conter continued to serve in the Navy for the rest of the war, participating in battles in the Pacific and eventually being discharged in 1945. He went on to have a successful career in sales and marketing, but he never forgot the events of that fateful day in 1941.
In the years since the attack on Pearl Harbor, Conter has become a symbol of the courage and sacrifice of the men who served on the USS Arizona. He has spoken at countless events and ceremonies, sharing his experiences and honoring the memory of his fallen comrades. He has also been featured in several documentaries and books about the attack.
Sadly, Conter is now the last surviving member of the USS Arizona. However, their legacy lives on, and their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Lou Conter is a true American hero who served his country with honor and courage. His bravery and dedication to his fellow sailors are an inspiration to us all. As we continue to honor the memory of those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor, we must also remember the survivors, like Conter, who carried on their legacy and helped to win the war.
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