Lou Conter, the last living survivor of the USS Arizona battleship that sank during the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, passed away at the age of 102. The attack on the Arizona in 1941 led to the deaths of 1,177 sailors and Marines, nearly half of the total casualties in the assault. Conter, who was a quartermaster on the ship, was on the main deck when the bombing began, just as sailors were preparing to hoist the flag. One bomb penetrated the steel decks and ignited over 1 million pounds of gunpowder stored below, causing a devastating explosion.
Lou Conter died at his home in Grass Valley, California, after suffering from congestive heart failure. His daughter, Louann Daley, was by his side along with two of her brothers at the time of his passing. Conter’s death marks the end of an era, as he was the last surviving member of the USS Arizona crew. His experiences during the attack on Pearl Harbor and his memories of that fateful day will be remembered as a part of history.
The USS Arizona remains a poignant symbol of the sacrifices made during World War II, with the loss of so many lives on board the battleship serving as a reminder of the brutality of war. Conter’s role as a quartermaster on the Arizona placed him in the midst of the chaos and destruction of the attack, as Japanese planes flew overhead and bombs rained down on the ship. The explosion that ultimately sank the Arizona was a catastrophic event that left a lasting impact on Conter and the other survivors.
Despite the passage of time, the memory of the attack on Pearl Harbor and the loss of the USS Arizona crew continues to resonate with people around the world. The bravery and resilience of the individuals who served on the battleship are commemorated each year on December 7th, the anniversary of the attack. Lou Conter’s passing serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served their country during World War II, and the importance of honoring their legacy.
Lou Conter’s death represents the end of an era for the USS Arizona, as he was the last living survivor of the battleship that sank at Pearl Harbor. His passing leaves a void in the history of the ship and the memory of the attack that changed the course of World War II. As the number of survivors from that fateful day dwindles, it becomes increasingly important to preserve their stories and honor their service to their country.
The legacy of Lou Conter and the crew of the USS Arizona lives on through the memories of their bravery and sacrifice during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Their experiences serve as a reminder of the high cost of war and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. As we commemorate the service of those who fought and died on the USS Arizona, we honor their memory and pay tribute to their enduring legacy. Lou Conter’s passing marks the end of a chapter in history, but his spirit and the spirit of all those who served on the battleship will never be forgotten.
